Module 4: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Visuals and AAC

Visuals and AAC systems are similar, but not the same thing. However, these systems are complementary to one another and are useful tools for all students.

Visuals

Visuals are any system (such as pictures or objects) used to support students’ understanding and participation. The generalized nature of visual supports can improve any student’s ability to comprehend what is happening throughout their day. Visuals help a student do the things that are expected of them, such as following a classroom routine, eating their lunch, or going to the bathroom. Like AAC, visuals can be low or high tech.

Examples of Visuals include:

  • Shape of the day visuals (low-tech such as the classroom schedule posted at the front of the room, or high tech such as the use of an app like ChoiceWorks)
  • Stop signs posted at a door to discourage students from leaving the room
  • Directional arrows on the floor indicating which side of the hallway to walk on

AAC

AAC are systems that help anyone to communicate. Expressing thoughts, feelings and knowledge can all be supported by using AAC. We all use AAC every time we use a gesture, write a note or send a text message with emojis—we are augmenting our spoken word with other ways to communicate.

Combining AAC with Visuals

Visuals and AAC are complementary. Visuals provide structure and guidance, whereas AAC enhances personal communication and understanding. When used in conjunction the individual tools have a more powerful impact.

For example, the term “lunch” is on a student’s visual and AAC system. We could guide them to a picture of lunch on their “shape of the day” schedule (a visual support). We can model touching the “lunch” button (an AAC system) to tell them it’s time for lunch. We can model on the iPad or encourage the student to use their voice to say something using the iPad, perhaps “I + am + hungry” (high-tech AAC).

Strategies for AAC

An SLP helps choose an AAC system for the student with complex needs. Once a student has their AAC system, there are many strategies you can use to support that student’s communication development.

As you read through the strategies in this section, think about ways to use them with your student.