An AAC system refers to all the communication support technologies, modes, and strategies that an individual with CCN may use to communicate effectively with anyone, at any time, for any reason. Ultimately, the individual with CCN chooses what to use, where and with whom. We use the term AAC system, which may include but is never limited to an AAC device, to stress the multi-modal nature of communication, and that all of the parts and pieces of a system work together to support effective and authentic interactions.
An AAC system is comprised of communication support technologies, as well as strategies that make conversations flow more smoothly and help each partner in the interaction remain actively engaged. The goal of an AAC system is to support authentic interactions. All communication support technologies have inherent design inadequacies that can be barriers to authenticity. Indeed, the very act of using an external device to compose messages in a face-to-face interaction imposes constraints/barriers/distractions on that interaction. Therefore, the development of AAC systems must also address each interactant’s knowledge of how/when to use specific modes, methods, tools and techniques to communicate with different people, in different contexts, for different purposes.
No-technology
Low-technology
Voice-output Technologies
Mainstream Technologies
Other Assistive Technologies
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