What is AAC and AT?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

For those with severe speech and language impairments, an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system refers to all the means and modes a person uses to communicate, including pointing, manual signing, finger spelling, eye gaze, facial expressions, gestures and behavior.   All of these aspects of communication should be considered when assessing for an AAC system that is appropriate for the individual.

Assistive Technology (AT)

An Assistive Technology DEVICE is any item, piece of equipment or system that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.  An AT device can either be low-tech (such as a yes/no choice board or a PECs book) or high-tech (such as an ipad or a Lightwriter with voice output).

An Assistive Technology SERVICE is any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition or use of an assistive technology device.  Assistive Technology, therefore, can play a vital role in an AAC system.  Often, an individual with autism who may have a Movement Disorder, is given a device that is either too complicated to use, with multiple pages and overlays that have to be programmed in advance, or teachers, support staff and parents are not trained in how to use support the individual using the device.  In these very common situations, the device ends up not being used and the individual is left without a functional communication system.

 Supported Typing…..The Best of Both Worlds

• Supported Typing is a communication strategy that can help individuals with disabilities reliably and accurately access an AAC system. 
• Supported Typing is a communication strategy and an Assistive Technology service that helps an individual use their Assistive Technology device at home, at school, and in their community.
• Supported Typing provides the necessary supports, and fades those supports accordingly, to help the individual overcome any movement disturbance so they can access their Assistive Technology device in a meaningful way.  
• Supported Typing is a communication strategy and an Assistive Technology service that helps individuals use their Assistive Technology devices.