Fundamentals of AAC: A Case-Based Approach to Enhancing Communication is a course-friendly textbook designed to walk readers through the theoretical and clinical underpinnings of assessment, intervention, and consultation for individuals with complex communication needs across the lifespan. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) encompasses a variety of communication methods and is used by those with a wide range of speech and language impairments. With a consistent framework and descriptive case studies, as well as input from various stakeholders, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the needs of persons who use AAC and how to provide them with ethically and culturally considerate support.
Unlike other texts on this topic, this book empowers the reader to visualize AAC in action. Each chapter offers evidence-based information about the topic along with a case study. The case studies combined with short essays from various stakeholders illustrate the variety of ways in which AAC can enhance an individual’s connection with their communication partners and community, and the role of the speech-language pathologist as integral to this process.
Intended to easily translate into a six, eight or 13-week semester course, this textbook is divided into seven distinct sections:
- Section I provides an overview of AAC, no-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech AAC systems, as well as mobile technology and advancing technology.
- Section II discusses cultural and linguistic responsivity and how this underlies AAC systems and services.
- Section III reviews AAC assessment, intervention and implementation for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged individuals, along with goal-writing and data collection.
- Section IV covers assessment, intervention, and implementation for young adults and adults needing AAC.
- Section V offers the reader detailed information and rich examples of the application of AAC for persons with developmental disabilities.
- Section VI provides the theoretical foundation and exemplar case studies of AAC for persons with acquired disabilities.
- Section VII details consultation and training for various stakeholders, as well as tele-AAC services.
Key Features
- Overviews with key terms set the stage for each section
- 36 case studies with questions and visuals to clearly depict each case
- Boxes with practical tips and expert advice
- A PluralPlus companion website with diverse online resources for instructors in the Instructor’s Manual and video vignettes and tutorials for readers
Author(s): Nerissa Hall, Jenifer Juengling-Sudkamp, Michelle L. Gutmann, Ellen R. Cohn
Publisher: Plural Publishing
Year: 2022
Language: English
Pages: 579
City: San Diego
Preface
Acknowledgments
About the Editors
Contributors
Reviewers
Section I. AAC System Fundamentals
Chapter 1. A Co-Constructed Description of AAC
Introduction
Fundamentals
A Change in Focus
A Co-Constructed Understanding of AAC
In Conclusion
Case Study: WB
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The AAC System
Next Steps
References
Chapter 2. No-Tech AAC
Fundamentals
Unaided AAC
Aided AAC
In Conclusion
Case Study: PG
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Next Steps
References
Chapter 3. Mid- and High-Tech AAC
Fundamentals
Mid-Tech AAC
High-Tech AAC
Communicative Purpose
In Conclusion
Case Study: RA
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Next Steps
References
Chapter 4. Mobile AAC
Fundamentals
Introduction: What Are Mobile Technologies?
The Mobile Technology Revolution in AAC
Principles in Mobile Technology Application Design
Research Evidence and Funding Issues Related to Mobile Technology
Case Study: LM
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
The AAC System or Service
Next Steps
References
Chapter 5. Physical Access Features of AAC
Fundamentals
What Is Alternate Access and Who Is It for?
Types of Alternate Access
Assessment for Alternate Access
Multimodal and Low-Tech Access for Communication
Considering Multiple Methods of Access
Access and Mobile Tablets
Learning Language and Access Skills
In Conclusion
Case Study: JB
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
The AAC System or Service
Next Steps
References
Essay 1. Clinical Considerations and AAC: The Future of AAC
References
Section II. AAC Language Fundamentals
Essay 2. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Culture and Social and Economic Determinants of Health and the Use of AAC
What Are Social Determinants of Health?
Scenario 1: A Family Suffering From Societal and Economic Stressors
Scenario 2: A Family With Superior Resources
Digital Resources and Social Determinants of Health
References
Chapter 6. Cultural and Linguistic Responsivity in AAC
Fundamentals
Consequences of Subtractive Bilingual Environments for AAC Users
Building Additive Bilingual Environments for AAC Users
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Assessment
Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Intervention
Case Study: JR
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Next Steps
References
Chapter 7. Language and Vocabulary Features of AAC
Fundamentals
General Considerations
Vocabulary Selection Frameworks
Types of Vocabulary
Vocabulary Selection Tools
In Conclusion
Case Study: AN
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Next Steps
References
Essay 3. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Introduction to Models of Culture
Edward T. Hall’s Cultural Iceberg Model
Purnell’s Model for Cultural Competence
Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Model
Conclusion
References
Essay 4. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Introduction to African American Culture — Cultural Values and Communicating Respect
References
Essay 5. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Introduction to Hispanic Culture — Cultural Values and Communicating Respect
Cultural Values and Communicating Respect
Respect for Authority
Cultural Values and Other Aspects
References
Essay 6. Cultural Considerations and AAC: LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Practice: Empowering Our Queer Clients and Families
Vocabulary and Definitions
References
Essay 7. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Self-Evaluation of Cultural Competence
References
Essay 8. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Religious Considerations
Diet
Prescription Medication
Medical Procedures
Conclusion
References
Essay 9. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Essential Faith-Based Vocabulary for Protestant Christian Users of AAC
Essay 10. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Essential Vocabulary for Jewish Users of AAC
How the Deity Is Referred To
Titles of Religious Leaders and Other Key Figures
Things We Read and Write
Ritual Objects and Related Things
What We Do and Say
Holidays and Celebrations
Praying: Key Prayers, Blessings, and Names of Services
Where We Go: Houses of Worship, Study, and Gathering
Family
Life-Span Topics
Food
Who We Are
Guidance on Use of This Vocabulary
Reference
Essay 11. Cultural Considerations and AAC: Essential Vocabulary for Muslim Users of AAC
Guidance on Use of This Vocabulary
Deity/God
Religious Texts
Religious Leaders and Other Key Figures
Houses of Worship
Ritual Objects/Related Things
Actions
Greetings/Sayings
Holidays and Celebrations
Prayers and Names of Services
Family
Life-Span Topics
Food
Who We Are
References
Section III. AAC Assessment, Intervention, and Implementation for Infants, Toddlers, and School-Aged Individuals
Essay 12. Ethical Considerations and AAC: A Framework for Ethical Communication and Practice
References
Essay 13. Ethical Considerations and AAC: A Consumer’s Perspective
Chapter 8. Assessing Toddlers and Preschoolers
Fundamentals
General Principles of Assessment of Toddlers and Preschoolers
Preparation for the Assessment
Assessment
Case Study: RC
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Rationale for Clinical Decision-Making
Next Steps
References
Chapter 9. Intervention and Implementation for Toddlers and Preschoolers Using AAC
Fundamentals
Case Study: IB
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The AAC System
Rationale for Clinical Decision-Making
Next Steps
References
Chapter 10. Assessing School-Aged Individuals
Fundamentals
Case Study: RJ
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The AAC System or Service Considerations
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 11. Intervention and Implementation for School-Aged Individuals Using AAC
Fundamentals
Intervention Across the Five Domains of Language
Intervention Across AAC Competencies
Innovation/Modifications to Existing Language Therapy Tools
Descriptive Teaching Method
Support and Teaching Strategies
Case Study: JV
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Ongoing Assessment
Intervention Strategies and Implementation Supports
References
Essay 14. Clinical Considerations and AAC:AAC and Literacy Lesley
Reference
Chapter 12. Data Collection and Goal Writing in AAC
Fundamentals
Goal Writing
Case Study: SB
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The Data Collection System
The Rationale for Clinical Decision-Making
Next Steps
References
Essay 15. Clinical Considerations and AAC: Visual Support for AAC
Chapter 13. AAC for the Child in End-of-Life Care
Fundamentals
The Care Team at End-of-Life
Communication Planning
Common Needs and Symptoms Children May Experience at End-of-Life
AAC Considerations at End-Of-Life
Conclusion
Case Study: GM
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Section IV. AAC Assessment, Intervention, and Implementation for Adults
Chapter 14. Services for Young Adults Using AAC Transitioning to Adulthood
Fundamentals
Prologue
New and Emerging Communication Technologies
AAC and the Importance of Transition
Case Study: CK
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 15. Assessing Adults
Fundamentals
Communication Assessment and Action Plan
Final Report
Case Study: GB
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The Assessment
Next Steps
References
Essay 16. Ethical Considerations and AAC: Ethical Vendor Relationships
References
Chapter 16. Intervention and Implementation for Adults With Neurodegenerative Disorders Using AAC
Fundamentals
Education and Counseling
Preservation
Augmentation
Adaptation
Final Thoughts
Case Study: SH
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC System or Service Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 17. AAC for the Individual in the Intensive Care Unit
Fundamentals
Introduction: Communication Risks and Barriers Including Health Disparities, Diversity, and Inclusion
Special Considerations for the Intensive Care Unit
Patient Care Standards
Communication Partner Training and Interprofessional Practice
Life-Sustaining Decision-Making and End-of-Life Communication
Best Practices Models
Conclusion
Case Study: EG
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 18. AAC for Adults in End-of-Life Care
Fundamentals
Communication Difficulties at End-of-Life
How AAC Can Support Communication, Socialization, and Decision-Making
Case Study: KM
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
The AAC System or Service
Next Steps
References
Section V. AAC for Persons With Developmental Disabilities
Essay 17. Clinical Considerations and AAC: A Parent’s Perspective
Language
Include
Support
Team
Encourage
Normalize
Always L.I.S.T.E.N.
Chapter 19. AAC for Persons With Developmental Disabilities
The Fundamentals
Challenging Behaviors and the Role of Speech-Language Pathologists
AAC Evolves Across Their Life Span
Establish “Buy-in” and Prepare for the Communication Journey
Assessment and Selecting a Tool
Investigative Intervention
Designing a Meaningful Communication System
Consultation Services
Case Study: KC
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 20. AAC for Persons With Autism Spectrum Disorder Tanushree Saxena-Chandhok, Deborah Xinyi Yong, and Sarah Miriam Yong Oi Tsun
Fundamentals
SETT Framework
Communicative Competence
AAC Intervention Strategies
The Role of the Caregiver in AAC Intervention
Case Study: EL
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 21. AAC for Persons With Cerebral Palsy
Fundamentals
AAC Strategies and Technology
AAC Assessment
Intervention
Case Study: PL
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC System and Service Considerations
Next Steps
References
Essay 18. Clinical Considerations and AAC: The Other “A” for “Augmentative”
Chapter 22. AAC for Persons With Specific Sensory Impairments
Fundamentals
Dual Sensory Impairment
Cortical Visual Impairment
AAC and Sensory Impairments
Case Study: HS
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 23. AAC for Individuals With Sensory Integration Challenges
Fundamentals
Competencies Versus Sensory Integration Areas
Considerations for the Trial Process
Instructional Strategies
Case Study: ES
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
The AAC System or Service
Next Steps
References
Chapter 24. AAC for Persons With Complex Trauma
Fundamentals
Case Study: PW
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Section VI. AAC for Persons With Acquired Disabilities
Essay 19. Ethical Considerations and AAC: Critical Health Situations, Informed Consent, and the Importance of Appropriate AAC
References
Chapter 25. AAC for Persons With Traumatic Brain Injury
Fundamentals
Review of Cognitive-Communication Deficits in TBI
AAC Versus Assistive Technology Versus Information and Communication Technologies
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Assistive Technology
Information and Communication Technologies
Special Considerations
Case Study: TH
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 26. AAC for Persons With Motor Speech Disorders
Fundamentals
Case Study: RL
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 27. AAC for Persons With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Fundamentals
Communication Symptoms
Dysarthria
Voice Disorder
Cognitive-Communication
Dysphagia
Communication Needs
Intervention Phases
Phase 1: Monitor, Prepare, and Support
Phase 2: Assess, Recommend, and Implement
Phase 3: Adapt and Accommodate
Case Study: RP
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC System or Service Considerations
The Rationale for Clinical Decision-Making
Next Steps
References
Chapter 28. AAC for Persons With Aphasia
Fundamentals
Case Study: WP
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 29. AAC for Persons With Dementia
Fundamentals
Setting the Stage for AAC Use in Dementia
Strengths and Deficits in Dementia
Memory
Communication
Strengths and Deficits in Dementia: Clinical Implications
Guidelines for Developing AAC for People With Dementia
Examples of AAC for People With Dementia
Supported Preference Assessment
Memory Books
Orientation Aids
Reminder Cards
Activities of Daily Living Support
Supporting Care Partners
Conclusion
Case Study: AM
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
The Rationale for Clinical Decision-Making
Next Steps
References
Chapter 30. AAC for Persons Who Are Medically Complex
Fundamentals
Introduction
Participation Framework
Case Study: LG
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC System or Service Considerations
Next Steps
References
Section VII. AAC Services for Stakeholders
Chapter 31. AAC Consultation
Introduction
Terminology
The Fundamentals of AAC Consultation
Limits of the Traditional AAC Consultation Process
Collaborative Consultation
The Collaborative Consultation Process
Speech-Language Pathologists as Learners
Speech-Language Pathologists as Teachers
Developing Consensus on the Problem
Shared Decision-Making
Building Capacity for AAC Implementation
Case Study: JE
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Next Steps
References
Chapter 32. Communication Partner Training for Families
Fundamentals
Family Characteristics
AAC in Everyday Life
All-the-Time Access
Leverage Requesting
“Something Different” — All-the-Time Choice
Referencing
Before, During, and After
Spiraling Learning Experiences for AAC Communication Partners: Four Key Elements
Information
Tools/Technology
Skills
Habits
Case Study: PH
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Service Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 33. Communication Partner Training for Clinicians
Fundamentals
Communication-Partner Training
Responsive and Engaging Communication Partners
Supporting Adult Learners to Teach AAC
Models of Support
Designing Effective Learning Opportunities for Communication Partners
Barriers to AAC Implementation
Opportunity Barriers Include Attitude, Knowledge, Skill, Practice, and Policy Barriers
Case Study: JT
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations for Training
Next Steps
References
Chapter 34. Communication Partner Training for Staff
Fundamentals
Case Study: BT
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
AAC Considerations
Next Steps
References
Chapter 35. Tele-AAC: The Basics
Fundamentals
Methods of Tele-AAC Service Delivery
Hardware and Software Considerations
Case Study: JS
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
Tele-AAC Setup for Optimal Visual Access
Next Steps
References
Chapter 36. Tele-AAC for Service Delivery
Fundamentals
Case Study: JS
Clinical Profile and Communication Needs
The AAC System or Service
Next Steps
References
Essay 20. Clinical Considerations and AAC: Building My AAC Village
Index
