DeCoste, Denise C. : Team Leader, InterACT, Montgomery
Summary
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a field which crosses many disciplinary boundaries. It is
a rapidly changing field that uses the latest innovations and technologies to aid the language-disabled, and requires
fluency not only in the hands-on technological aspect, but the service-delivery side as well. This well-written
handbook addresses that need and is filled with practical information and extensive referencing. Some of its unique
features include overview of development of assistive technology and its links with AAC, and present service delivery
models in a variety of settings; discussions of available technology systems, strategies, and access, and issues
of literacy development, funding and legal responsibility, and program effectiveness; examines special populations
and special environments; includes case studies throughout; and extensive appendixes of devices, manufacturers,
associations. A valuable text for graduate students studying communication disorders and special education, the
book would be a useful addition to the professional library of anyone working with AAC users, most especially for
those working with children.
Table of Contents
PART I: OVERVIEW OF AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION.
Introduction To Augmentative And Alternative Communication.
Service Delivery. Symbol Systems And Vocabulary Selection Strategies.
Augmentative And Alternative Communication Assessment Strategies: Seating And Positioning.
Motor Access And Visual Considerations.
The Role Of Literacy In Augmentative And Alternative Communication.
Funding and Legal Issues.
PART II: SPECIFIC DISABILITIES AND AAC.
AAC And Individuals with Physical Disabilities.
AAC And Children With Developmental Disabilities.
AAC And Individuals With Severe to Profound Disabilities.
AAC And Adults With Acquired Disabilities.
PART III: AAC IN SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENTS.
AAC In The Family And Home.
AAC In The Educational Setting.
AAC In The Hospital Setting.
Augmentative And Alternative Communication For Adults With Developmental Disabilities.
APPENDIX A: AAC PRODUCT DIRECTORY.
APPENDIX B: AAC PRODUCT VENDORS AND MANUFACTURERS.
APPENDIX C: AAC AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ORGANIZATIONS.
APPENDIX D: AAC INFORMATION RESOURCES.
Glossary.
Index.
