Multimodality: a basis for augmentative and alternative communication–psycholinguistic, cognitive, and clinical/educational aspects

Abstract

Purpose. Message generating is a complex process involving a number of processes, including the selection of modes to use. When expressing a message, human communicators typically use a combination of modes. This phenomenon is often termed multimodality. This article explores the use of models that explain multimodality as an explanatory framework for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Method. Multimodality is analysed from a communication, psycholinguistic, and cognitive perspective.

Results. Theoretical and applied topics within AAC can be explained or described within the multimodality framework considering iconicity, simultaneous communication, lexical organization, and compatibility of communication modes.

Conclusion. Consideration of multimodality is critical to understanding underlying processes in individuals who use AAC and individuals who interact with them.

Keywords:

• Communication
• non-verbal
• linguistic
• gesture