Understanding Methods & Modalities Flashcards

Which AAC modality relies solely on the body without any external tools or devices?

Answer: Unaided AAC

Unaided AAC uses only the body — including sign language, gestures, and facial expressions — with no external tools.

A dynamic display device automatically changes its page layout when a category button is pressed. What is the primary advantage of this feature?

Answer: It allows access to a larger vocabulary without clutter

Dynamic displays expand vocabulary access by showing different pages on demand, keeping each screen uncluttered.

A clinician selects a voice output device that produces pre-recorded natural speech rather than synthesized speech. This is best described as:

Answer: Digitized speech output

Digitized speech uses recorded human voice samples played back, as opposed to computer-generated (synthesized) speech.

In the context of AAC symbol systems, which characteristic distinguishes aided symbols from unaided symbols?

Answer: Aided symbols require an external support or tool

Aided symbols require some external support — such as a board, card, or device — whereas unaided symbols are produced with the body alone.

Which of the following best exemplifies a low-tech AAC strategy?

Answer: A laminated communication board with PCS symbols

A laminated communication board is a low-tech, no-battery, no-electronic aided AAC tool.

A user activates their SGD by moving their head to control a mouse cursor. This access method is called:

Answer: Head mouse / head tracking

Head mouse or head tracking technology translates head movements into cursor movements, enabling indirect access to an SGD.

Which principle from AAC best-practice guidelines supports offering multiple modalities to a single user simultaneously?

Answer: Multimodal communication

Multimodal communication recognizes that individuals use a combination of methods — speech, gesture, SGD, writing — rather than one system alone.