Key principles underlying research and practice in AAC

Abstract

Six principles of AAC research and practice are offered for consideration and discussion within the AAC community. Principle 1 requires the active participation of individuals with complex communication needs (CCN) in all AAC activities. Principle 2 seeks to ensure that theoretical constructs underlying research and development in AAC are grounded, widely accepted, and clearly defined. Principle 3 underscores the need to use ergonomics in the design and development of AAC technologies and instructional strategies. Principle 4 highlights communication partners and the unique roles they play in AAC. Principle 5 accentuates the need to focus on societal roles, relationships, and opportunities made possible by AAC technologies and services. Finally, principle 6 draws attention to the importance of measuring a broad range of AAC outcomes, especially those most significant to primary AAC stakeholders.

Keywords:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• AAC
• AAC/AT Technologies
• Complex Communication Needs
• Theoretical Constructs
• Ergonomics
• Communication Partners
• Outcomes

Notes

1 The AAC-RERC is a virtual center with seven sites (Duke University, Augmentative Communication Inc., Children's Hospital-Boston, Pennsylvania State University, Temple University, University of Buffalo-New York and University of Nebraska) and ten partners (David R. Beukelman, Sarah W. Blackstone, Diane N. Bryen, Kevin Caves, Frank DeRuyter, Jeff Higginbotham, Janice Light, David McNaughton, Howard Shane, Michael B. Williams).

2 Virtual network computing (VNC) software makes it possible to view and fully interact with one computer from any other computer or mobile device.

3 Physical ergonomics (anthropometrics, biomechanics, health and safety) asks the following questions: How are people physically part of a system? How can systems be better designed to interact physically with people?

4 Macroergonomics (systems theory, organizational psychology) asks the following questions: What factors come into play during interactions among people? How do environmental constraints affect human-machine systems?

5 Macroergonomics (systems theory, organizational psychology) asks the following questions: what factors come into play during interactions among people? How do environmental constraints affect human-machine systems?

6 http://www.temple.edu/instituteondisabilities/programs/assistive/acolug/

7 DynaVox Technologies, 2100 Wharton Street. Suite 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA.

8 Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Ave #517, Boston, 02115, USA.