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icommunicate Guide Child Information Special Needs Assistive Communication
icommunicate Guide Child Information Special Needs Assistive Communication
| Assistive Communication Devices / AAC |
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Assistive technology is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices with a focus on facilitating communication (often called Alternative and Augmentative Communication, or AAC). Modern new electronic machines (hi-tech) have become the new way for many individuals to communicate. However, assistive devices do not have to be expensive or electronic, they can be lo-tech (picture cards, communication books), and often the simpler lo-tech option is the better more functional option depending on the client and their disability. Whatever assistive device is used the end goal is to improve communication and independence. Assistive technology can be a huge facilitator to children with learning difficulties, helping them learn and communicate. Assistive technology can be broken into 2 sub-categories – hi-tech and lo-tech: Hi-tech generally refers to electronic devices. These tend to be a more expensive option, but encompass powerful machines which can include voice output. Hi-tech options can also include software which includes applications to help with literacy difficulties, sound discrimination and auditory memory. Specialised software can also be added to computer and hi-tech machines to provide voice output and word prediction. To access hi-tech devices some individuals may need scanning options, special switches or an eye-gaze system. Lo-tech refers to less technical options such as picture communication cards, communication books or an E-TRAN frame. Although often overlooked because of the obsession with technology, these options can actually be more effective than a hi-tech option for many children. The important aspect to note when choosing an assistive communication option is that it is crucial that you do a thorough trial of several different options to really find the best fit. The higher tech, most expensive option is not always the best. You have to take account of many variables including portability, functionality and speed of use. The use of assistive communication devices, both hi-tech and lo-tech, are very much part the icommunicate philosophy. This website is all about communication and a total communication environment. This means we focus on every modality that can be used to facilitate communication. At icommunicate we plan to have a heavy focus on assistive communication and technology. To find out more about the range of communication options that you can use to facilitate communication for individuals with special needs see our Downloads Centre. To find more information and resources relating to Special Needs and communication visit our Resource Centre. You can also look at, and purchase a large variety of books relating to Children with Special Needs, and facilitating the communication, learning, and behaviour of individuals with special needs, at our Online BookShop. |
