How to Use Assistive Communication Devices
Augmentative communication devices give people a voice who otherwise would not have one. By having the ability to express their wants and needs, a person can suddenly advocate for themselves instead of relying on other people. This guarantees that parents, teachers and other caregivers are all working in the best interest and hopes of the person utilizing the assistive technology.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Using an Augmentative Communication Device
-
1
Choose the right device. Because there are so many different choices on what to use, it is important to decide on the proper piece of equipment. It is necessary to evaluate the physical and cognitive abilities of the person utilizing the device. You must also consider what functions and settings the communication device would be needed. A good augmentative communication device will have the ability to work at school, home and within the community.
-
2
Provide training to all that need it. With simple communication devices such as a piece of equipment that just plays a single recorded message, training will be minimal. However, some equipment, such as the DynaVox, will require a lot of training for the individual using the equipment and anyone that might be helping them with it. Training will not just consist of learning how to use the device. It will also be important to learn how to set it up so that the person who needs it can use it in multiple places.
-
-
3
Practice! The most beneficial settings to practice communication are in real situations. Finding situations that are self-motivating will increase the likelihood of the device being used successfully. An example for this could be ordering food at a fast-food restaurant. Once the person communicating is able to let the cashier know what he or she wants, he or she is immediately rewarded by getting their desired meal.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Communication is a social situation, and it is important not to stigmatize an individual using an augmentative communication device that does not appear age-appropriate. The prevalence of computers and laptops can make devices that resemble those good choices. Also, programs that can be added to equipment that many people of all ages have, such as the TapToTalk for the Nintendo DS, can also be an appropriate device.
Complex augmentative communication devices can sometimes take a lot of time and energy to prepare for a specific social event. It is important to leave time to do this so that the equipment can be utilized to its full potential.
