Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP. Over 30 years experience in AAC. OMazing Kids AAC and app consulting. Creator of 3 AAC Feature Matching resources (https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources). Includes info about unique features to support Gestalt Language Processors
Use this new resource as a way to document options being considered during your “AAC Test Drive”. It’s a 10 page worksheet with 150 features and things to consider when comparing AAC options (high tech, mid tech and non tech): https://bit.ly/AACtestdriveWorksheet
Want in-depth up to date info about the features in these apps? Check out “Three Feature Matching Resources for AAC Apps (comparing features in AAC apps)”: https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources. The chart for symbol-based AAC apps includes a free supplemental handout “Unique Features in Symbol-Based AAC Apps to Support Gestalt Language Processors”.
There is no “one size fits all” to anything about AAC and many individuals will need to use a variety of options (non tech, mid tech, high tech (SGDs, apps on an iPad or iPhone or other tablet or phone), sign language, gestures, facial expressions, vocalizations, segments of videos for gestalts, handwriting, etc…) as part of a multimodal system to support communication across environments and situations.
An AAC app is often part of a successful multimodal AAC system. While there isn’t any “perfect” AAC app there are features in these apps that might make some a better “fit” over other options.
It’s similar to taking a test drive to find a form of transportation that you like and meets your needs at that point in your life. All cars have an engine, tires and seats. Your first car may have been very basic transportation. But think about your dream vehicle. What features would it have? Why would you choose it over a different option? Older individuals might prioritize safety features. A teen or single young adult might prioritize the “look” / how “cool” it is. A family with young children might prioritize how many car seats can fit and storage. Others might prioritize fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness. You might ride a bike, subway, train, take an Uber ride, take a ferry, paddle in a canoe, etc. None of these is necessarily “better” than another or the “best” form of transportation. The “best” option is the one that meets the needs of that individual in that situation.
In order to take AAC on a “test drive”, you need access. If you are an SLP or SLT and have an iPad, you can get access to several robust iOS AAC apps to try out with patients / students / clients.
Here are three FREE handouts with the details on how to get access:
* When available, please try the free version/free trial to take a look at an app before requesting an app code. App codes are limited and are intended for SLPs who do AAC evals frequently and need quick ongoing access during evaluations, feature matching & trial of options.
* The official process for requesting a code was verified for inclusion in each of these handouts and the feature matching charts.
* These app codes are typically NOT compatible with a mobile device management also known as a MDM-managed device. They require a standard non-managed Apple ID.
* Most app developers will ask for info regarding your role in AAC evals, how many you do in a year, where you are located, type of setting you work in, etc. to substantiate the need. It is likely that those working in a non-profit setting or school or specific geographic areas may be prioritized. App developers receive a very limited number of codes per app release or update so there will likely be waiting lists.
* Codes do expire so please make sure to redeem it immediately so it’s not wasted.
* When needing switch scanning as a method of access, be sure to also consider traditional SGDs that have built in switch ports that will likely provide a more reliable means of access. When exploring switch access on an iPad, it is important to try out any options (switches, switch interface, iOS Accessibility) being considered to insure that they will work for that particular user and within that particular AAC app. Seating, positioning and identification of the best type of switches and optimal switch sites are crucial for AAC users to be successful with this method of access. Please collaborate with that user’s PT, OT and/or AT specialist.
For those who only have an occasional need, please consider alternative means of trying that app:
* Another option in the USA is to contact your state’s AT Lending Program. They will likely have iPads with AAC apps available for short term loan.
Want in-depth up to date info about the features in these apps? Check out “Three Feature Matching Resources for AAC Apps (comparing features in AAC apps)”: https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources. The chart for symbol-based AAC apps includes a free supplemental handout “Unique Features in Symbol-Based AAC Apps to Support Gestalt Language Processors”.
A gestalt language processing style should be considered during an AAC eval, when customizing AAC & during implementation. The power of truly embracing and incorporating individual interests into an AAC system and AAC implementation plus customizing for unique needs cannot be overstated. It is a neurodiversity affirming practice that builds connections, fosters AAC ownership, resonates with them and allows for authentic communication…
Only add things that are meaningful to that individual
Consider the function of the gestalts, the contexts in which they are used & the organization/design of that app when adding content
Consider the opportunity to embrace the interests of that individual in customizing an AAC system that resonates with them. Some things might be added for self-regulation and the pure joy that they bring. Individuals with some speech may script for these reasons. AAC users deserve the opportunity to do this via AAC
Be open to using more than one AAC option to meet the needs. We all use “multimodal communication”
AAC Customization “Don’t”:
Don’t alter the inherent structure or features of an AAC app unless it’s to meet specific sensory or access needs
Don’t replace Core Words or other items on the Home Screen with gestalts
Don’t add things just because you saw someone post about adding a particular phrase or video. There is no “standard set” of gestalts
Don’t delete a gestalt/button once that gestalt has been mitigated
Don’t switch to a different AAC system unless an AAC eval with feature matching and trial of options has been completed and there is a specific reason to change. There is no one “best” AAC option for anyone regardless of whether they are a Gestalt or Analytic Language Processor
Want to learn more about AAC feature matching (comparing features and matching them to an individual’s needs)? Check out the three feature matching resources: https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources. The feature matching resource for the symbol-based AAC apps includes a free supplemental handout “Unique Features in Symbol-Based AAC Apps to Support Gestalt Language Processors”. It has info related to all 12 apps + additional info about features in 8 free and affordable symbol-based AAC apps (mainly iOS, some Android and a couple of Windows) priced $2.99 or less.
Info about all three Feature Matching Resources for AAC Apps (comparing features in AAC apps) + TPT bundle and multiple license discounts: https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources
Info about all three Feature Matching Resources for AAC Apps (comparing features in AAC apps) + TPT bundle and multiple license discounts:https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources
Info about all three Feature Matching Resources for AAC Apps (comparing features in AAC apps) + TPT bundle and multiple license discounts: https://bit.ly/3aacFeatureMatchingResources
An update for the Feature Matching Chart for Visual Scene and Video Visual Scene Display AAC Apps has been uploaded to Teachers Pay Teachers. More info has been added about the EasyVSD Android app. FYI… the ChatAble app is not currently available for purchase while it is in the process of being updated.
Have questions? The best way to reach me with any questions is via messaging on the OMazing Kids Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/. That way AAC related messages don’t get lost among the spam in my e-mail.
Have questions? The best way to reach me with any questions is via messaging on the OMazing Kids Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/. That way AAC related messages don’t get lost among the spam in my e-mail.
Are you a busy SLP who needs quick access to apps and digital resources to target specific goals? This resource was designed just for you.
The Ultimate App and Digital Resource Guide for SLPs (updated for 2022) includes:
Interactive PDF (240 pages with linked Table of Contents) full of lists of hundreds of apps and digital resources organized by SLP goal areas and themes
App demo videos (links to 29 unlisted YouTube videos)
Have questions? The best way to reach me with any questions is via messaging on the OMazing Kids Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/. That way AAC related messages don’t get lost among the spam in my e-mail.