Augmentative and Alternative Communications Perspectives – serie

The new demands of this "computer and technology age" have focused international attention on literacy levels, on literacy development and literacy disorders. Governments have launched programs to reduce literacy difficulties and support functional literacy for all. In this context, the needs of individuals with severe speech and physical impairments may seem relatively small, and even unimportant. However, for this group of individuals in particular unlocking the literacy code opens up tremendous opportunities, minimizing the disabling effects of their underlying speech and motor impairments, and supporting participation in society. Ironically however, for a group for whom literacy is such an important achievement, current studies suggest that achieving functional literacy skills is particularly challenging.In order to read, individuals with severe speech impairments must access a set of written symbols and decode them to abstract meaning just as anyone else must do. They must convert underlying messages into an alternative external symbol format in order to write. In order to become expert in both of these activities, they must learn at least a certain core of knowledge about how the symbols and messages relate to each other. Just as there are many ways to skin a chicken, there are many possible ways to achieve mastery of reading and writing. Although the essence of the task may remain the same for individuals with congenital speech impairments, they may process the task, or develop task mastery in ways that are quite different from speaking children who have no additional physical impairments. "Literacy and Augmentative and Alternative Communication" focuses on individuals with combined physical and communication impairments, who rely at least some of the time on aided communication. It investigates the range of research and application issues relating to AAC and literacy (primarily reading and writing skills), from the emergent literacy stage up through adulthood use of reading for various vocational and leisure purposes. It provides a balanced view of both the whole language as well as the more analytic approaches to reading instruction necessary for the development of reading skills.

This book provides readers with vast knowledge of practical applications, theoretical models, services and evidence-based solutions in the areas of assistive technology (AT) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). It aims to equip practicing clinicians, educators and students with the necessary background to use AT and AAC with their clients. This book also sheds light on the many different roles and functions of AT and AAC for a large variety of clinical populations, and suggests solutions the reader can implement immediately. Although a particular focus is set on communication disorders, described applications and resources also apply to individuals with developmental disabilities and sensory impairments. In addition to outlining most recent low and high technology, this book makes a particularly strong effort to teach general principles and guidelines for successful AT and AAC interventions regardless of what particular technology is used. This resource is a crucial addition to the bookshelf of any professional dealing with AT and/or AAC, including speech-language pathologists, special educators, occupational therapists, physical therapists, early intervention specialists, students in professional programs, users of AT or AAC, their families, and applied researchers. This is a must read for novices and seasoned professional alike.