SLP Augmentative and Alternative Communication 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Semantic compaction (Minspeak) is a symbol encoding strategy in which:
- Each symbol has a single, fixed meaning
- Sequences of icon combinations code for words or phrases (Correct answer)
- Symbols are organized alphabetically for rapid retrieval
- The device predicts the next word based on previous selections
Correct answer: Sequences of icon combinations code for words or phrases
Semantic compaction uses sequences of polysemantic icons (icons with multiple meanings) combined to encode a large vocabulary in a small number of keys.
Question 2: Which outcome measure is MOST useful for tracking functional communication gains in an AAC user?
- Standardized articulation test scores
- Communication partner questionnaires and communication diaries (Correct answer)
- Pure-tone audiogram results
- Expressive vocabulary age equivalent scores
Correct answer: Communication partner questionnaires and communication diaries
Communication partner questionnaires and diaries capture real-world communicative functions—initiations, topics covered, autonomy—that standardized tests miss.
Question 3: A toddler with complex communication needs is beginning AAC intervention. The SLP recommends robust AAC from the start rather than a simplified system. This is consistent with:
- A prerequisite or readiness model
- A participatory-progressive model
- The no-exclusion principle and presumption of competence (Correct answer)
- Developmental sequencing theory
Correct answer: The no-exclusion principle and presumption of competence
The no-exclusion principle holds that no individual should be denied access to AAC based on presumed cognitive or developmental prerequisites; competence should always be presumed.
Question 4: Which AAC strategy involves the SLP deliberately creating situations where the client needs to communicate to obtain a desired item?
- Least-to-most prompting
- Milieu teaching / communication temptation (Correct answer)
- Social scripting
- Total communication approach
Correct answer: Milieu teaching / communication temptation
Milieu teaching and communication temptations create natural motivating opportunities for communication by withholding desired items until the client makes a communicative attempt.
Question 5: For an adult who had a laryngectomy, which AAC device most closely approximates natural voice quality for conversational use?
- Electrolarynx held to the neck
- Tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis (TEP) (Correct answer)
- Artificial palate
- Esophageal speech training aid
Correct answer: Tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis (TEP)
A tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis (TEP) diverts pulmonary airflow through a silicone valve into the esophagus, producing a voice quality generally rated most natural after laryngectomy.
Question 6: When programming vocabulary for a school-age AAC user, the SLP should FIRST consult:
- The device manufacturer's default vocabulary list
- The student's teachers, family, and the student themselves (Correct answer)
- Age-based normative word frequency lists only
- The prior SLP's notes exclusively
Correct answer: The student's teachers, family, and the student themselves
Vocabulary selection should be driven by collaborative input from the user, family, and teachers to ensure personally relevant, functional words across environments.
Question 7: Which population is MOST likely to benefit from a voice amplifier as an AAC support?
- An individual with complete aphonia due to laryngectomy
- An individual with hypophonia due to Parkinson's disease (Correct answer)
- An individual with severe apraxia of speech producing no vocalizations
- An individual who is deaf and uses ASL as a primary language
Correct answer: An individual with hypophonia due to Parkinson's disease
A voice amplifier is most appropriate when voice is present but low in volume, as is characteristic of hypophonia in Parkinson's disease.
SLP Augmentative and Alternative Communication 4
Semantic compaction (Minspeak) is a symbol encoding strategy in which: