The AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is strategies like tools that assist people with communication disabilities to help them better participate in social roles. For example, "interpersonal interaction, learning, education, community activities, employment, volunteerism, and care management."
http://aac.unl.edu/
One example of a low tech tool is a Speak Book which gives the ability to communicate for those who cannot speak. The Speak Book is squared shaped that has a list of options in each corner divided by four different colors. Also between each corner is a color dot that corresponds with the options on the colors. When a person wants to communicate they look at a certain color followed by the color dot. This will tell someone what the topic is and what option they chose. For example, someone might look at a list of drinks followed by one color of the drink they want. This book was created by someone who a communication disability. It was design to be a nonprofit communication tool that can be downloaded online. The Speak Book can be used in a classroom between a student and their teacher, aid, or staff member. The various topics and options can be erased in the book, which gives the school member the ability to write different questions about a lesson, giving the student the ability to participate.
One example of a high tech tool is a LightWriters. A LightWriter provides people the ability to text a sentence which is instantly turned into speech. Also, the device is designed with two faces, one that faces the user and the other is displayed for easier communication. On the device is a keyboard that is arranged alphabetically. This feature makes it easier for young children that struggle with communication. Also the LightWriter is portable, which provides an easy service for people with communication disabilities. The LightWriter can be used in the classroom as communication between peers and the teacher. With this device a student will be able to express his thoughts.Accessibility
One example of a software is the ipad communicator. This is an application for an ipad that provides users with different list of vocabularies. Each word is illustrated through a picture. Users can create sentences by choosing various picture vocabularies. Also, the application can be rearranged by adding different categories and words. In addition this application can be used in several languages. This application can be used in classrooms to help build on vocabulary for younger students. A teacher has the ability to add and subject different vocabulary list that apply to the daily lessons.
One example of a hardware is a magic touch screen. The touch screen can be added to a computer monitor. The screen enables users to touch the computer screen to better communicate through symbols, pictures, and words. This can be used in the classroom between a student and teacher interaction. Often students spend time in a computer lab. The magic touch screen would come in handy when a student has questions during the lesson.
The Speak Book is a really interesting piece of low-tech equipment. While it allows for a broader amount of conversation, I imagine this must be a level of misunderstanding as well if a person misinterprets where the other person's gaze was looking at.
ReplyDeleteI agree Caitlin,
DeleteThe topics and options presented in the SpeakBook doesn't seem as clear or specific like other the LightWriter device. But I do like how the corners can be customized by a teacher, which allows the student to participate in class.