Multi-modal communication and AAC
Multi-modal communication is the use of a range of communication methods that allow a person to be confident and independent. Everyone uses multi-modal communication! Think about the range of ways you communicate every day. You might use “mouth words” or verbally saying words, writing, texting, drawing, making gestures such as pointing or waving, facial expressions, tone of voice, or symbolic emojis :)
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is commonly used by people who have difficulty with communication. AAC may involve the use of “high-technology” solutions such as a tablet with software, or eye-gaze devices. It can also involve use of “mid-tech” or “light-tech“ supports such as printed communication books, key word sign, or printed pictures. Often a combination of methods is used.
Why is AAC important?
Communication is a human right. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 19 states:
“Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”
AAC gives people with communication difficulties a way to exercise their rights. It enables access to tools that can help people express themselves, and understand others.
Who Should Consider AAC?
Anyone can use AAC! There are no prerequisites to using AAC and it should be considered early for anyone experiencing communication difficulties.
How do I access AAC?
Speech Pathologists can support clients to explore AAC solutions that work best for them. Usually your Speech Pathologist will complete assessments, identify features of systems that may be important for you, trial different solutions and then recommend suitable options. Often this involves collaborating with other professionals such as Occupational Therapists, teachers, and suppliers.
We have access to AAC! Now what?
Research indicates that “communication partner training” can support AAC use (Kent-Walsh et al., 2015, Moorcroft et al., 2019). This is where communication partners (those who communicate with the AAC user), are trained by clinicians to implement strategies that support communication development, learn how to use the device, and troubleshoot any concerns. Speech Pathologists can support you to develop these skills. They can also work with the AAC user to learn and implement the AAC system, along with other methods of communication. It is also important to consider how the AAC system is meeting the needs of the user, so changes, upgrades or new solutions can be implemented as they develop and move through different stages of life.
Will using AAC stop the development of “mouth words” (verbal speech)?
This is a common question we hear when exploring AAC options! Research indicates that AAC does not prevent a person from learning to speak verbally, but instead helps to support the development of important communication skills (Millar et al., 2006, Schlosser & Wendt, 2008).
More questions about Multi-modal communication and AAC? contact us to find out more.
References:
Kent-Walsh, J., Murza, K. A., Malani, M. D., & Binger, C. (2015). Effects of communication partner instruction on the communication of individuals using AAC: A meta-analysis. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 31(4), 271–284. https://doi.org/10.3109/07434618.2015.1052153
Millar, D.C., Light, J.C. and Schlosser, R.W. (2006) ‘The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities: A research review’, Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 49(2), pp. 248–264. doi:10.1044/1092-4388(2006/021).
Moorcroft, A., Scarinci, N., & Meyer, C. (2019). ‘we were just kind of handed it and then it was smoke bombed by everyone’: How do external stakeholders contribute to parent rejection and the abandonment of AAC systems? . International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, 55(1), 59–69. https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.12502
Universal declaration of human rights (no date) United Nations. Available at: https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights (Accessed: 18 May 2023).
Schlosser, R.W. and Wendt, O. (2008) ‘Effects of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on speech production in children with autism: A systematic review’, American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 17(3), pp. 212–230. doi:10.1044/1058-0360(2008/021).
