Augmentative/Alternative Communication Enhances Speech Acquistion

A common myth when it comes to the implementation of augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) is that a voice output device will somehow hinder or delay the development of verbal speech. Evidence has proven this claim to be unsubstantiated. In fact, AAC serves to help people develop verbal speech.

 

Sketchnoting

Sketchnoting is a form of notetaking where the person taking notes draws an image. The visualization is meant to tie concepts together and can be made using a combination of text and pictures. The active process of creating the sketch note along with the visual representation of the concepts helps the learner make connections and remember the content. Beyond paper and pencil, any tool that provides a drawing feature could be used to create a sketchnote including but not limited to the following:

Check out this video from educator and author Carrie Baughcum describing sketchnoting.


 

 

Compose Writing With One’s Voice

Speech-to-text can help people produce text without the use of a keyboard. Learners can compose text without the need of fully-developed spelling or typing abilities. Voice Typing is a feature built into Google Docs which allows a user to create text with one’s voice. Read&Write for Google Chrome also has a speech input function which allows users to add text to notes of Google Slides and directly into the chat of a Google Meet.

 

Modeling Language Using Augmentative/Alternative Communication While Playing With Toys (like Race Cars!)

Playing with toys, like race cars, can be a great opportunity to model language using augmentative/alternative communication (AAC). When playing together, communication partners (you!) can help a student learn vocabulary by using the AAC yourself to comment on the action, ask open-ended questions about what’s happening with the toy, and respond to whatever the student expresses using the AAC.

Playing with toys can be a fun way to model language using AAC.

The following is an example created by Speech-Language Pathologist, Jessica Cerovich, who models language using an AAC application while playing with race cars.

  • Comment on actions using words and phrases such as “Go” and “It is fun.”
  • Ask an open ended question like “Where does it go?”
  • Respond when the child communicates anything.

 

Setting Up An Online Calendar Over The Summer

Learners can use their LCPS Google accounts to create and manage multiple calendars using Google Calendar. Screenshot of Getting Started with Google CalendarGoogle Calendar has color coding, collaboration, and reminder features to help individuals never miss another event. Different views allow the learner to see a schedule for the day, week, month, or even more customized options. At first, learners might need guidance about what types of events should go on the calendar. Over time, using the calendar becomes habitual and part of one’s daily routine. The Google Workplace Center has a step-by-step guide to learn how to use and manage Google Calendar.

Summer is the perfect time to practice adding items to the calendar such as sporting events, family outings, scheduled chores, and more. This way when the school year kicks into gear learners can begin to add events related to academic learning.