One of the most well known methods for working with students who are non-verbal is the Picture Exchange Communication System, or PECS. According to the PECS website, “PECS was developed in 1985 as a unique augmentative/alternative communication intervention package for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and related developmental disabilities.” As the name suggest, PECS begins …
Category Archive: AAC
Jun
14
AAC Training Now Available!
If you haven’t had a chance to look at CKSEC’s online training center, you should do so now. It contains several trainings available to member districts. The link to view it is www.cksec.org/pdms. You must create an account to access the courses (don’t worry, we won’t spam you… just necessary so we know how many …
Jan
13
The importance of collecting data for AAC users
I’m really in to data based decision making. I know this term gets thrown around quite a bit, but I think it’s importance is often overlooked, especially when we get into the AAC field. Let me start with an example that involves communication, just the wrong kind. A colleague of mine is a behavior consultant. …
Sep
02
Comparing Newer AAC Devices
I’ve been saying for sometime now that the iPad and iPod Touch may fix many of the problems with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device abandonment we see so much in schools. I mean let’s be honest, even though some devices cost upwards of $5,000, kids do not want to carry these dedicated communication devices …
Aug
20
Helpful iPad Post
Ran across this post on an AT blog from the Virginia Department of Education about iPad orientation locking. iPads are becoming more and more popular in the classroom setting. However, I see some students struggle when it comes to holding them. If tilted just a little too much in one direction or the other, the …
May
20
Speakers for your iPhone or iPod Touch
I’ve been on the road quite a bit this week and last, so not much time for posts. I did run across a set of speakers for the iPhone or iPod touch however that I think will work great with the Proloquo2Go software I highlighted last week. The speakers pictured to the left are from …
May
11
A Low Cost AAC Alternative – Proloquo2Go
If you haven’t already heard, there is an App in the apple application store for iPhone and iPod Touches that can turn your iPod into an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. If you’re not familiar with AAC devices, they help people who are unable to speak communicate with others… they give you a voice. …
Mar
11
A communication device worth looking into
I had an opportunity to take a look at a new communication device at the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference in January. It is called the ProxTalker and is a bit different from other devices on the market. As you can see, the ProxTalker’s design is one that fits in well with students who …