What is Communication?
The discipline of communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. The discipline promotes the effective and ethical practice of human communication.
Communication is a diverse discipline which includes inquiry by social scientists, humanists, and critical and cultural studies scholars. A body of scholarship and theory, about all forms of human communication, is presented and explained in textbooks, electronic publications, and academic journals. In the journals, researchers report the results of studies that are the basis for an ever-expanding understanding of how we all communicate.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term that encompasses the communication methods used to supplement or replace speech or writing for those with impairments in the production or comprehension of spoken or written language. AAC is used by those with a wide range of speech and language impairments, including congenital impairments such as cerebral palsy,intellectual impairment and autism, and acquired conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. AAC can be a permanent addition to a person's communication or a temporary aid.
Modern use of AAC began in the 1950s with systems for those who had lost the ability to speak following surgical procedures. During the 1960s and 1970s, spurred by an increasing commitment in the West towards the inclusion of disabled individuals in mainstream society and developing the skills required for independence, the use of manual sign language and then graphic symbol communication grew greatly. It was not until the 1980s that AAC began to emerge as a field in its own right. Rapid progress in technology, including microcomputers and speech synthesis, have paved the way for communication devices with speech output and multiple options for access to communication for those with physical disabilities.
Augmentative and alternative communication, also known as AAC, is a term that is used to describe various methods of communication that can help people who are unable to use verbal speech to communicate. AAC can benefit a wide range of individuals, from a beginning communicator to a more sophisticated communicator who generates his own messages.
AAC includes both unaided and aided systems. Unaided systems, like signing and gestures, do not require special materials or equipment. Aided systems use picture charts, books and special computers. AAC methods vary and may be personalized to meet each individual’s needs. Many forms of AAC include an assistive technology component which range from high- to low-tech strategies.
Who Benefits From AAC?
Any person with a disability that makes it difficult for them to communicate may benefit from AAC. Some people need AAC only for a short time; others may use it throughout their lives. AAC allows an individual to express their needs and wants, and more fully participate in decisions that affect their lives.
AAC also benefits family members and other significant others, providing a way for them to more fully communicate with their loved ones. Although you don't need special skills to understand an individual who is using AAC, it is important to remember to give the augmented communicator ample time to communicate.
Some common barriers to effective communication include:
1.The use of jargon, over-complicated or unfamiliar terms.
2.Emotional barriers and taboos.
3.Lack of attention, interest, distractions, or irrelevance to the receiver.
4.Differences in perception and viewpoint.
5.Physical disabilities such as hearing problems or speech difficulties.
6.Physical barriers to non-verbal communication.
7.Language differences and the difficulty in understanding unfamiliar accents.
8.Expectations and prejudices which may lead to false assumptions or stereotyping. People often hear what they expect to hear rather than what is actually said and jump to incorrect conclusions.
9.Cultural differences. The norms of social interaction vary greatly in different cultures, as do the way in which emotions are expressed. For example, the concept of personal space varies between cultures and between different social settings.
WHO NEEDS AAC?
1.The use of jargon, over-complicated or unfamiliar terms.
2.Emotional barriers and taboos.
3.Lack of attention, interest, distractions, or irrelevance to the receiver.
4.Differences in perception and viewpoint.
5.Physical disabilities such as hearing problems or speech difficulties.
6.Physical barriers to non-verbal communication.
7.Language differences and the difficulty in understanding unfamiliar accents.
8.Expectations and prejudices which may lead to false assumptions or stereotyping. People often hear what they expect to hear rather than what is actually said and jump to incorrect conclusions.
9.Cultural differences. The norms of social interaction vary greatly in different cultures, as do the way in which emotions are expressed. For example, the concept of personal space varies between cultures and between different social settings.
WHO NEEDS AAC?
People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth.
AAC users should not stop using speech if they are able to do so. The AAC aids and devices are used to enhance their communication.
- See more at: http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/#sthash.kxPiZL87.dpuf
What are the types of AAC systems?
When children or adults cannot use speech to communicate effectively in all situations, there are options.
Unaided communication systems – rely on the user's body to convey messages. Examples include gestures, body language, and/or sign language.
Aided communication systems – require the use of tools or equipment in addition to the user's body. Aided communication methods can range from paper and pencil to communication books or boards to devices that produce voice output (speech generating devices or SGD's)and/or written output. Electronic communication aids allow the user to use picture symbols, letters, and/or words and phrases to create messages. Some devices can be programmed to produce different spoken languages.
Unaided communication systems – rely on the user's body to convey messages. Examples include gestures, body language, and/or sign language.
Aided communication systems – require the use of tools or equipment in addition to the user's body. Aided communication methods can range from paper and pencil to communication books or boards to devices that produce voice output (speech generating devices or SGD's)and/or written output. Electronic communication aids allow the user to use picture symbols, letters, and/or words and phrases to create messages. Some devices can be programmed to produce different spoken languages.
- See more at: http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/#sthash.kxPiZL87.dpuf
http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/service/a/aaron-perlman-center/assistive-technology/communication/default/
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)andassistive technology devices help individuals with speech impairments to communicate.
Record any single message directly into the BIGmack and press its large activation surface for up to 2 minutes of playback. Students with visual disabilities and those who require a larger activation surface will have no problem connecting with BIGmack communicator’s large, 5-inch activation surface as they connect with teachers, classmates and the world around them.
This apps wheel has apps to support all kinds of AAC needs that will support the successful learning of those in need of this kind of help.
Hi Keisha: nice posts. Can you identify who are typical users of the AAC devices you posted in the pictures?
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