Course Description
Principles, strategies, research, and best practices in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for individuals with limited or nonfunctional speech. Terminology, assessment, selection of AAC devices and systems, and intervention and management strategies to maximize client success, including inter-professional and family collaborations.
Athena Title
Augmentative Alternative Comm
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to: 1. Describe and apply principles and procedures for the assessment of individuals with limited speech, and describe the impact of related factors such as motor ability. 2. Identify, organize, and evaluate information from various sources related to assessment and intervention in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). 3. Integrate knowledge of basic diagnostic principles and evidence-based practice into AAC practice, including automated communication performance measurements. 4. Describe, differentiate, and assess language representation methods (e.g., single-meaning pictures, alphabet-based methods, and semantic compaction). 5. Identify potential candidates for AAC systems and develop research-based and client-centered options for communication systems. 6. Analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information to determine appropriate intervention strategies for beginning AAC users and to facilitate successful long-term use of AAC systems. 7. Demonstrate an understanding of issues surrounding vocabulary selection and recognize the need for ongoing evaluation and adjustment throughout the intervention process. 8. Discuss the roles and responsibilities of the speech-language pathologist, the client, the clients’ significant others, and other professionals in the assessment and intervention process for AAC and in successful long-term use.
Topical Outline
1. AAC Devices and AAC Users -- Users' Needs and Voices -- Continuum of Solutions -- Alternative Access -- Messages, Symbols, and Rate Enhancement -- Comparisons of Devices 2. Principles and Methods of AAC Assessment -- Research Base -- Assessment Planning 3. Principles and Methods of AAC Intervention -- Outcomes Research -- Participation and AAC Use -- Communication Partner Techniques -- Planning for Long-term Success 4. Specialized Applications and Contexts -- AAC to Promote Literacy and Inclusion in Education -- AAC for Children with Multiple or Complex (Dis)Abilities or Conditions -- AAC for Adults with Acquired or Degenerative Disorders