Communication Toolkit

This episode introduces the topic of gestalt language processing. Specifically what this terms means and how to identify if a student may be this type of learner.

In this episode we discus the Descriptive Teaching Approach and how it can be used in instruction to provide further practice of core vocabulary. For more information on this topic check out this blog post from AAC Community.

In this episode we review the definition of core vocabulary and discuss how these flexible messages are the foundation of building language and should be taught first when introducing an AAC system. Check out this Daily Routines Planning Form from Project Core to help you determine what core words to focus on and how to provide multiple opportunities to use these words in meaningful activities throughout the day.

In this episode, we continue our discussion about setting up opportunities for our students to use their AAC systems in meaningful ways throughout the day. This blog post from Cough Drop, 10 AAC Tips for Teachers, is a great resource for basic tips on implementing AAC in the classroom.

We kick off this discussion by interviewing a school based SLP, Susan Heck, with over a decade of experience working with students with a wide range of communication needs and hear her top tips for implementing AAC systems throughout the school day. Check out this article from Assistiveware for more suggestions!

In this episode, we complete our discussion on prompting by talking about the least to most prompting hierarchy. Remember, we always want to be sure that we are using aided language stimulation but when prompting users for responses here is a great resource for guiding decision making on which prompt(s) to use.

In this episode, we begin a two part conversation about prompting. Prompting can be a useful tool in teaching students to use their AAC system. However, we have to make sure that we fade these prompts as quickly as possible to avoid prompt dependency. This post from AVAZ provides some great suggestions for prompt fading.

In this episode we wrap up a two part discussion about Aided Language Stimulation; specifically how to implement this evidence based practice throughout the day. This form helps to lay out Roles and Responsibilities of team members as part of a collaborative implementation plan. Teams may also find these suggestions for Planning for AAC Througout the Day useful in identifying natural teachable moments.

In this episode we begin a two part discussion about Aided Language Stimulation. Today we discuss what it is and why it is important. Check out this video Aided Language Stimulation Explained for a more in depth description. And this resource titled AACtion Point, from AAC Institute, for a great example of what this might look like in action. Click here for a transcript of today's episode.

This episode features SLPs discussing busting common myths associated with AAC (augmentative alternative communication). Resources referenced in this episode include the Communication Bill of Rights and the AAC Continuum chart. To dive into these myths a little deeper check out 10 Things You May Not Know About AAC. Click on this link for a transcript of today's episode.