Introduction to AAC
Generating a shared language for the policy makers
Consider that some readers of this document will be completely new to AAC and will have no knowledge of the terminology used. It will be helpful to initially clarify:
What is AAC?
What do we mean by AAC?
What can AAC do?
This policy could be the first time many families will learn about AAC, therefore keep this information easy to read and as clear as possible. You can go into greater detail on elements like visual supports in subsequent sections.
Discussion Point!
Why might a learner need AAC?
Discuss the points above with your team to help generate and agree on shared language amongst yourselves and within the policy.
Example: Broad Definition of AAC
Below are some examples of broad definitions of AAC you may wish to include in your policy.
Definition of AAC
AAC stands for ‘augmentative and alternative communication’. It is an approach to communication that helps people to communicate or to communicate more clearly and easily.
‘Augmentative’ means that it helps to make communication clearer. This may be by helping people make their speech clearer or it may be by helping them to communicate something that a person is trying to say using things like body language or facial expressions.
‘Alternative’ means a different way to communicate. This may be instead of speech or it may replace some behaviours for some user
Communicating according to our own intentions or, put more simply, the individual is able to say what I want to say, to whoever I want to say it to, whenever I want to say it, however I choose to say it.
Porter, G. PODD Communication Books Introductory workshop manual © 2018
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a range of strategies and tools to help people who struggle with speech. These may be simple letter or picture boards or sophisticated computer-based systems. AAC helps someone to communicate as effectively as possible, in as many situations as possible.
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