Understanding AAC Assessments: A Journey to Effective Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) assessments are pivotal in providing individuals with communication challenges the tools they need to express themselves effectively. At TinyEYE, we understand the intricacies involved in choosing the right communication system, and this blog aims to simplify the process, offering insights into AAC assessments.
Objectives of AAC Assessment
The primary objectives of an AAC assessment are:
- Familiarizing with potential components of an AAC assessment.
- Focusing on dynamic AAC skills assessment, including targeting linguistic and non-linguistic factors.
- Interpreting assessment information to make clinical decisions around low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech communication systems through feature matching.
The Complexity of AAC Assessments
AAC assessments are inherently complex, and it is crucial to approach them with flexibility and openness to change. The process is iterative, requiring constant reassessment and adaptation as new information becomes available.
Guiding Principles for AAC Assessment
The I CAN Centre outlines several guiding principles for AAC assessment:
- Collaborate with other professionals as much as possible.
- Aim for functional communication across all environments, considering no-tech, low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech systems.
- Provide access to as many symbols as the person can handle physically and visually.
- Assess for a robust communication system that supports a variety of communication functions and can grow with the individual.
- Never assume what will work best; test various options.
Assessment Process
The assessment process involves several steps:
- Gather Information/Intake: Use the SETT framework to guide discussions, focusing on the student's needs, environment, tasks, and tools/strategies.
- Dynamic AAC Skills Assessment: Assess targeting, symbolic knowledge, and non-linguistic indicators like attention and engagement.
- Interpret Assessment Results: Use the gathered information to feature match and identify potential systems that suit the individual's needs.
Dynamic AAC Skills Assessment
This part of the assessment focuses on understanding the individual's capabilities and preferences, such as:
- Size, number, and type of symbols.
- Presentation method (paper-based vs. screen-based).
- Symbolic use and understanding, communication functions, and navigation skills.
Feature Matching
Feature matching is a systematic process where a person's strengths, abilities, and needs are matched to available tools and strategies. This involves considering linguistic and non-linguistic factors, such as:
- Attention and engagement.
- Impact of voice output.
- Portability and positioning.
- Environmental considerations.
Running Trials and Collecting Data
Once potential systems are identified, trials are conducted to evaluate their effectiveness. Data collection during these trials is crucial to determine the best fit for the individual. Continuous reassessment ensures that the chosen system evolves with the individual's changing needs.
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