Augmentative communication, assistive technology and adaptive equipment — formative SAQs

SAQ 1 (10 marks)

A 4-year-old autistic child has fewer than 10 spontaneous words and frequent meltdowns at preschool. Parents fear a tablet device will stop speech. [3]

1. Define AAC and complex communication needs. (2) [13]
2. Outline how you will counsel regarding AAC and speech. (3) [1] [2] [3]
3. List the key steps of a participation-focused AAC plan. (5) [13] [14]

Model answer — SAQ 1

1. AAC augments or replaces spoken speech (unaided and aided methods). CCN means speech alone does not meet communication needs across daily contexts. [13]

2. Multi-modal support: AAC does not require stopping speech attempts. Early AAC supports participation now. PECS has evidence for requesting; speech gains are variable. Naturalistic SGD approaches are supported in CCN/autistic preschool populations. [1] [2] [3]

3. Goals with family/school → multidisciplinary assessment (SLP/OT/PT) → feature-match language and access → trial low- and high-tech → train partners → review participation and frustration behaviour; keep low-tech backup. [13] [14]