AAC decision-making framework organized around unaided versus aided system options¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 2 claims (2 for) · 1 study (1 review), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The article organizes AAC selection as a decision process across decision points, grounded in the taxonomy that "AAC systems can be divided into two broad categories, unaided and aided." Unaided AAC involves symbols such as manual signs and gestures requiring no external equipment; aided AAC includes PE and SGD aids relying on material external to the body. The framework weighs environmental demands, individual abilities, symbols, and system features, and considers speech, non-symbolic methods, and text as further options.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Decision-making must account for each child's unique cognitive, motor, and communication abilities and barriers, and the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of each AAC system.

Constraints¶

• The decision-making process is complicated even for skilled practitioners due to variability across AAC systems and individual differences.

Target Learners¶

• Children and individuals with developmental disabilities including autism who do not use speech functionally

Target Learning Objectives¶

• Expressive communication of wants, needs, feelings, and ideas

Claims¶

• Sgd Preference Over Pe And Manual Signs [+M]
• Aided AAC systems show advantages over manual signs for acquiring requests, and motor imitation and matching skills predict manual sign acquisition [+M]

Related Theories¶

Examples¶

• Assess children's AAC system preferences as part of the AAC decision-making process
• Communication Boards
• Pair AAC introduction with structured parent training, follow-up, and practical guidance for everyday routines

Key Sources¶

• Nam, S., Kim, J., & Sparks, S. (2018). An Overview of Review Studies on Effectiveness of Major AAC Systems for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Including Autism. The Journal of Special Education Apprenticeship, 7(2). https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1185374