Developing augmentative and alternative communication for language, literacy and social skills in a special school setting

For students with complex communication needs, augmentative and alternative communication systems (both electronic and low technology) are essential in fostering the development of language, literacy and social communication skills. As complex communication needs are often correlated with physical and/or sensory impairment, many factors need to be considered in order maximize the student's learning and participation.

The impact of physical and/or sensory impairment in the development of language, literacy and social skills will be discussed; and strategies to maximize learning will be provided. The prerequisite skills needed for language and literacy development and ways to address these will be explored. The importance of an 'immersion' approach to augmented language and the promotion of active participation will be highlighted and practical, hands-on methods and ideas to incorporate AAC into daily situations will be featured.

The skills of the communication partner, the engineering and set up of the learning environment, and the physical access method of an augmentative system will also be outlined. The link between language, literacy and social skills development and these issues will be demonstrated through the use of case studies and video footage.

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