The AAC Learning Center Moodle provides free evidence-based content on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for pre-service teachers and speech-language pathologists. Students will be able to complete activities on-line, and then download a Certificate of Completion as documentation of their activities. Students also will be able to print and complete a guided notes activity that summarizes the key content of the module.
Below please find an outline of the content for Developing AAC Systems for Children. Please click on Developing AAC Systems for Children to view the materials at the AAC Learning Center Moodle. You will be asked to register/sign-in at the Moodle site.
This module describe key consideration in developing personalized AAC systems for children.
Introduction
AAC systems should be based on the knowledge, skills, and interests of the individual child, and support participation in a wide variety of activities.
AAC Supports and the Four Stages of Communication Development
Everyone communicates, and everyone can be supported in communicating more effectively. The type of AAC supports, including both AAC techniques and the support provided by the communication partner, will change based on the skills and interests of the child.
A Multimodal Approach to Communication
Personalized AAC systems should recognize the benefits of a multi-modal approach to communication, and support a variety of communication functions.
Key Issues in AAC System Development
AAC system development will vary based on the knowledge, skills, and interests of the individual child. AAC system development should always consider:
- developmentally appropriate representation of vocabulary items,
- access strategies that are accurate, easy to use, and safe,
- vocabulary that supports cognitive and linguistic development, and
- an easily learned organizational structure.
We estimate it takes students approximately 45 minutes to complete this module and earn the Certificate of Completion. To view the module, please go to https://moodle.aac-learning-center.org , register, and log in. You will then be able to select (“Access”) the module on Developing AAC Systems for Children.