Language Development & User Support Strategies Flashcards

How does AAC support language development?

Answer: Supports expression

AAC systems provide individuals with alternative methods to convey their thoughts, needs, and ideas when verbal speech is limited or absent. By offering tools like symbols, text, or synthesized speech, AAC empowers users to express themselves effectively. This ability to communicate fosters language development by allowing users to practice forming messages and engaging in communicative exchanges.

Why is modeling AAC important?

Answer: Teaches usage

Modeling AAC involves communication partners actively using the AAC system themselves while interacting with the AAC user. This demonstrates how the system works in real-time communicative situations, providing a clear example of how to select vocabulary, construct sentences, and engage in conversation. Through consistent modeling, users learn the practical application and functionality of their AAC device, making it an essential teaching strategy.

What is aided language stimulation?

Answer: Speaking while pointing

Aided Language Stimulation (ALS), also known as Aided Language Input, is a strategy where a communication partner points to symbols on an AAC system while simultaneously speaking aloud. This technique models how to use the AAC system to form messages, connecting spoken words with their corresponding visual representations. It helps the AAC user understand the meaning of symbols and how to combine them for communication.

Why provide consistent feedback to AAC users?

Answer: Encourages learning

Consistent feedback provides AAC users with immediate information about their communication attempts, whether successful or needing adjustment. Positive reinforcement for successful communication motivates users and builds confidence, while constructive feedback helps them understand how to improve. This ongoing guidance is vital for refining their AAC skills and encouraging continued engagement and learning.

How does repetition support learning AAC?

Answer: Builds memory

Repetition in AAC learning involves consistently practicing the use of symbols, phrases, and system navigation. This repeated exposure and practice help to solidify the connections between concepts and their representations in the user's memory. Over time, this builds automaticity and fluency, making communication faster and more efficient as the user can recall and access vocabulary more readily.

Why involve family in AAC support?

Answer: Increases practice

Family members are typically the most consistent communication partners in an AAC user's daily life. Their active involvement ensures that the AAC system is used regularly across various environments and activities, providing abundant opportunities for practice. This consistent exposure and integration into daily routines are crucial for developing fluency and generalization of AAC skills.

What role do peers play in AAC support?

Answer: Boosts social use

Peers provide natural and motivating communication contexts for AAC users, encouraging them to use their systems in social interactions. When peers are educated about and engage with AAC, it normalizes its use and creates opportunities for genuine social exchanges, such as playing games, sharing stories, or collaborating on tasks. This interaction helps AAC users develop social communication skills and build relationships.

Why is customizing vocabulary important?

Answer: Improves relevance

Customizing vocabulary means tailoring the AAC system's content to include words, phrases, and topics that are personally meaningful and frequently used by the individual user. This ensures that the system reflects their unique interests, daily routines, and communication partners, making it more functional and motivating. Relevant vocabulary allows users to express themselves authentically and participate effectively in their specific environments.

What is scaffolding in AAC instruction?

Answer: Support to independence

Scaffolding in AAC instruction involves providing temporary, adjustable support to help a user learn new skills, gradually reducing that support as they become more proficient. The goal is to enable the user to perform tasks independently, such as finding symbols or constructing sentences, by offering just enough assistance to succeed without doing it for them. This approach fosters skill acquisition and promotes self-reliance in communication.