I have a few kids who are using AAC's and I don't have much experience so I went looking for some information. I found a course through ERLC (in Alberta) and signed up for MMM. It was so informative. During the 1 hour, free, course I learned so much. Kate Ahern did the presentation and she has placed her powerpoint. I think anyone in the speech world should read it, all teachers and all parents.
Kate also has a blog, check it out here!
I made a quick list of information I found important:
- AAC is any kind of non-verbal communication including gestures, sign language, spelling, communication boards and technological devices (like iPads.)
- Always presume that the student has not yet learned a way to communicate and not that they "can't do it." They need us to teach them how to communicate their needs/wants and feelings.
- Communication Bill of Rights, every person has the right to communicate their need, wants and feelings.
- Every person has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. To be spoken to and not about and to be taught how to communicate.
- When you are working with an AAC- start small.
- Don't use the device for asking "find the... or where is the..." Use it to communicate not as a receptive tool.
- You need to use it, model it, model, model! The student won't learn how to use it unless you use it and model how to use it.
- Use it in a motivating way so that it is fun. If its no fun, and not useful, the student won't be motivated to use it.
- Always have the device handy. Don't put it away, keep it accessible at all times.
Thank you for all the wonderful, useful information, Kate!
0 comments:
Post a Comment