AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION
What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a type of Assistive Technology (AT). AT includes low-tech and high-tech devices and products that are used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
AAC includes all forms of communication (other than speech) that are used to:
- express needs and wants
- exchange information
- develop social closeness
- maintain social etiquette
People with significant speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement speech or to replace existing speech that is not functional. AAC is most often used in combination with speech to maximize functional communication.
How can the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic help?
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) Atlantic Region Assistive Technology Demonstration Center located at the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic offers services designed to assist those with communication needs. Clinical faculty members are distinguished service providers as well as dedicated teachers and researchers who prepare the next generation of speech-language pathologists.
What is the evaluation procedure at the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic?
Comprehensive evaluations are conducted to determine which communication needs are not being met. Clients, who have already received an AT assessment/evaluation at another location, should send the report with the UCF case history form to the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic. This will provide information about whether additional evaluation procedures need to be completed.
In addition, clients need to send any relevant school or medical reports from previous AT assessments/evaluations.
Please click on the link below to complete a case history form. The completed form can be faxed or mailed to the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic (see Contact Us). It cannot be sent back electronically due to privacy issues.
Adult AAC Case History Form
Child AAC Case History Form
What type of treatment is provided at the UCF Communication Disorders Clinic?
Treatment options to maximize the effective use of AT and AAC in the everyday lives of children and adults are offered. All services focus on matching individual communication skills, needs and priorities with appropriate technology.
For further information on AT, visit:
Videos
Click on the image below to view a faculty interview originally aired on UCFTV.
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Associate Professor. Jennifer Kent-Walsh discusses AAC on the "For Your Health" show.
Part I
Part II
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Please click on Research for an abbreviated list of our recent publications and research initiatives. Click on Outreach for a list of our community outreach affiliations. |
