Augmentative Communication Devices

Augmentative Communication Devices

Augmentative communication assists individuals who cannot speak to interact with others.  Augmentative communication systems are designed to “augment” the existing communication ability a person has (facial expressions, gestures and body language, etc.)

Below are some guidelines and prompts to consider when implementing Augmentative Communication Systems for your students.

Strategies Helpful to Overcome “Learned Helplessness”

• build a daily expectation of communication through specific activities to be chosen by the student
• sharing brief daily reports to parents communicated by the student
• allow natural consequences to occur to the student with avenues to repair
• provide powerful phrases of rejection, protest or satisfaction

Augmentative Communication in the IEP

If a student has a need for a communication device, it should be listed in the assistive technology section of the IEP.  From there, elaborations of the use of the device and reasons for its need should be clearly stated.

It was also shared that if this device is used by the student it should be highlighted and recognized for teachers to tailor instruction accordingly.  The person responsible for operating it should also be mentioned.

Importance of Support of Augmentative Communication at Home and in Community

One’s augmentative communication device serves as their voice and therefore it should be welcomed and incorporated regularly into school and home activities.  This chapter even suggests that learned usage of the device in school helps students generalize in different settings.  This requires significant family involvement, respect and acknowledgment of a person’s culture, and the identification of places or activities in which the student enjoys and is involved.  The individuals who teach and interact with this individual are advocating for their voice by support of their use of an augmentative communication device!

Reference:

Newton, Deborah A., and Jerry G. Petroff. "Chapter 12 - “Integrating Augmentative Communication in the Classroom, Home and Community.”  Assistive Technology in the Classroom Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities. By Amy G. Dell. 2nd ed. N.p.: Pearson, 2012. 280-301. Print.