AAC Basics and Strategies

This set of flashcards covers vocabulary and key concepts related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) as discussed in the lecture.

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

All forms of communication beyond oral speech used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas.

Congenital communication disorders

Disorders present at birth that affect communication, such as severe intellectual disability and cerebral palsy.

Acquired communication disorders

Disorders that occur after birth due to incidents like strokes or neurological conditions.

Linguistic domain

Knowledge of the linguistic code of spoken language, essential for AAC users to understand and utilize their tools.

Operational domain

The ability to effectively manage the use of AAC devices and techniques.

Social domain

Broad communication skills primarily related to pragmatics, such as topic maintenance and gaining attention.

Strategic domain

Adapted strategies to navigate communication breakdowns and enhance interaction.

Rate enhancement techniques

Methods used to increase the speed of AAC communication.

Dynamic displays

AAC systems that change the information shown based on user interaction.

Aided AAC

AAC that requires tools or devices, such as communication apps or systems.

Unaided AAC

AAC that does not require any external tools, including gestures and sign language.

Core vocabulary

A small set of high-frequency words used across various contexts.

Fringe vocabulary

Words that are specific to an individual's personal interest or context.

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)

A communication system that uses symbols exchanged to communicate needs.

Symbol

An image, object, or item used to represent another object, action, or idea.

Iconicity

The degree to which a symbol resembles what it represents, influencing understanding.

Message types

Different forms of communication in AAC, such as single-symbol or multi-symbol messages.

Communication competence

The ability to effectively communicate within linguistic, social, operational, and strategic domains.

Neurodiversity

Recognition that brain differences, like autism or ADHD, are natural variations and not deficits.

Autonomy in communication

The right and ability of individuals to control their own communication methods and practices.

Aided Language Stimulation

A method where communication partners model AAC usage while speaking.

Environmental controls

AAC systems that allow users to manage their surroundings, such as controlling lights.

Switch access

Techniques that allow individuals with limited mobility to select messages using switches.

Communication boards

Low-tech AAC devices that use images or symbols to facilitate communication.

Interactive narrative strategies

Techniques used to enhance story reading by involving AAC users in the narrative.

Active listening

Listening attentively and responding supportively to enhance communication.

Memory books

Personalized communication tools that help individuals recall important personal information.

Collaborative goal setting

Working with clients and their families to establish communication goals.

SOAP notes

Documentation method recording subjective and objective information, assessment, and plan.

Motivation in AAC use

Factors that encourage individuals to use AAC tools effectively based on their interests.

Proloquo2Go

A popular AAC app designed for users to communicate through customizable vocabulary.

Social interaction strategies

Approaches to facilitate effective communication between AAC users and their partners.

Learning symbols

The process in which AAC users understand and effectively utilize symbols for communication.

Visual scene displays

AAC layouts that present images of situations instead of grid layouts to support context-based communication.

Partner-assisted scanning

A method where a communication partner helps the user select options through sequential prompts.

Vocab maintenance

The ongoing process of updating the vocabulary used in AAC systems based on users’ changing needs.

Multimodal communication

The combination of multiple forms of communication, including speech, gestures, and AAC.

Gross motor skills

Physical skills that involve large muscle movements, critical for AAC device operation.

Down syndrome

A genetic disorder causing developmental delays and communication challenges.

Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD)

A developmental disorder characterized by challenges with social interaction and communication.

Progressive neurological disorders

Conditions that worsen over time, potentially impacting communication abilities.

Human rights in communication

The principle that all individuals should have the right to communicate effectively.