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Communication Sciences and Disorders 616

COSD 616: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Prerequisites: Graduate Standing

Credit Hours: (3)

An in-depth study of evidence-based approaches to assessment and intervention with individuals who require the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The course will also provide hands-on training with current AAC technology.

Detailed Description of Course

The major content of the course will be as follows:

history of the field of AAC
candidacy for AAC
overview of populations who use AAC
overview of types of AAC systems
access methods
acceleration techniques
input methods
representing and choosing vocabulary for AAC systems
purposes of communication for special populations
communicative competence
designing a comprehensive assessment plan
identification of communication needs
modes of communication
techniques for assessing language skills
symbol representation
sensory perceptual skills
positioning and access
cognitive organization of vocabulary
development of trial AAC systems
facilitator training
labs: software for programming systems, light tech systems, voice output communication aids
special populations who may benefit from AAC: autism, mental retardation, children and adults with challenging behaviors, acquired neurological disorders, progressive disorders in adults

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course will include a combination of lectures, discussions, and independent and group activities. Throughout the course, students will have opportunities to integrate and synthesize information presented during lectures and apply their knowledge to pediatric and adult clinical cases. Students will also have opportunities to apply their knowledge of evidence-based assessment and intervention approaches to developing and programming light and high tech AAC systems.

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Students will develop oral and written competencies in:

Describing the nature of augmentative and alternative communication
systems and strategies.
Describing populations of children and adults who may benefit from the use of augmentative and alternative communication
Conducting comprehensive assessments supported by the latest research.
Developing customized intervention plans based on state-of-the-art evidence-based approaches.
Developing skills in the development, programming, and use of light and high tech augmentative and alternative communication systems.
Developing skills in critical thinking for life-long learning.

Assessment Measures

Students' understanding and application of the material may be assessed regularly via examinations (oral and written), presentations, and assignments. Students may be asked to present assessment and intervention cases. Students may complete lab assignments to gain hands-on training of key software programs, develop light tech systems, and program high tech systems.

Other Course Information

N/A

Review and Approval
Approved March 2006