Augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, is a rapidly changing field that’s growing at the speed of technology. Many career paths lead to AAC whether it be intentionally or unexpectedly. Some individuals receive an introduction as a student, while others experience an AAC device at their first job. No matter how you find AAC, it’s an incredible opportunity to support individuals of all ages with complex communication disorders.
The AAC professional community consists of creative, compassionate clinicians and educators. They pursue someone’s highest communication potential with high- and lite-tech AAC solutions. Their days are full. Therapy sessions and evaluations. Problem-solving and collaborating. Research and training. Phone calls and paperwork. Solutions and celebrations!
AAC professionals are leaving their mark on this life-changing industry, and we respect so many qualities they possess. AAC professionals are, among others:
If you are new to AAC, welcome! You are joining a rewarding and respected profession. We asked our training and education team to share how they came to AAC as a career. Here are their stories.
At PRC-Saltillo, we partner in the communication journey with individuals, their families, and their professional teams. Our mission is to give voices, and we’re here to help you succeed.
You’re invited to “Unravel the Mystery of AAC” through our free, five-part eLearning series on AAC Learning Journey. You’ll learn more about communication needs and AAC possibilities through a sample case study, assessment tools, review of AAC solutions, and a plan for getting started. Taught by clinicians and with the flexibility to take at your own pace, this series includes ASHA CEUs upon completion.
As you explore a career in AAC, here are some respected areas of the field and how your role matters.
The AAC community is united in an individual’s fundamental right to communicate. Originally developed to ensure the basic rights of persons with severe disabilities, the Communication Bill of Rights promotes dignity, respect, and full participation in life at every age. When it comes to determining if AAC is a good fit for someone, competency is presumed.
You may come across many beliefs about communication and language. AAC research affirms some and counters others. Know what’s true and follow what’s been proven. Here are some myths that have been debunked by research. Supporting research gives you and your clients the best perspective and approaches for AAC success.
As you work with individuals and AAC, consider the unique needs of complex bodies in accessing AAC systems. Vision, motor skills, body movement/control, positioning of communicator and technology are all factors to address in their communication experience. Collaborating with all members of the AAC team (family members, speech therapists, occupational therapists, educators, physicians) helps determine the best AAC solution and implementation.
Robust, research-based AAC vocabularies give access to thousands of single words. With these single words, individuals can:
AAC vocabularies are available as lite-tech manual communication boards. They come to life with voice output and software features on a high-tech device. Electronic forms of assistive technology are continually evolving to help more people enjoy life to their fullest. That includes face-to-face communication and digital channels. We need to respect all forms of assistive technology that the individual uses. While being interested in the technology is a plus, it’s critical to remember that AAC is about connecting with people first, not about the device itself.
Connect with your local PRC-Saltillo consultant for clinical guidance, resource recommendations, product demos, and implementation trainings. Join an online cohort of the AAC Pro Coaching Clinic (sessions offered 2-3 times per year). Attend a conference that highlights AAC such as the ASHA Convention, Closing The Gap Conference, or ATiA Conference.