Courses & Tutorials
Online Tutorials
The Power of Communication. "This DVD has been produced by Communication Matters to provide an introductory presentation on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The film (running time 15 minutes) delivers a powerful message that communication really does matter." Preview the entire DVD here: http://www.communicationmatters.org.uk/Publications/Videos/The_Power_of_Communication/the_power_of_communication.html
AAC 101: A Crash Course for Beginners. A general overview from Alternatively Speaking online. http://www.augcominc.com/articles/as1_1_2.html
Assistive Technology Training Online – Free tutorials on Assistive Techology including AAC: Module on Communication Needs. An introduction to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for students 5-10 years old. Overview, Where to Begin, Considering AAC, Vocabulary Selection, Vocabulary Presentation, Representing Vocabulary, Visual Environments, Finding Pictures, Ideas for Students, Social Skills, Training, Using Devices & Systems. http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/Populations/aac/index.php
Self Study on AAC available free on-line from AAC Institute. Courses available: Language-Based Approach to AAC Assessment and Intervention. This course provides information on a structured approach to AAC assessment and intervention that focuses on language issues rather than technology features. AAC Performance Report: Definition, Generalization, and Use. This course identifies and defines the 17 quantitative summary measures of communication performance contained in the AAC Performance Report, how to generate the report, and how to use it in guiding clinical practice. http://www.aacinstitute.org/self-study/
AAC-RERC Webcasts are free and viewable on any browser. Topics include AAC and literacy, college, transition to adult life, language development, funding, seating and positioning, aphasia, ALS, and more. http://aac-rerc.psu.edu/index-13327.php.html
Training Manuals and Books
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) 101: What Teachers Need to Know. Delva Culp, MA, CCC with Graduate Clinicians Megan Flanigan, Laura Loveless, Alexandra Neuhaus, Randi Thomas. Downloadable for inservice training of teachers (49 slides, Power Point). Information on AAC, IDEA and AT access provisions; Six super strategies for teachers; resources. Developed at Callier Center, University of Texas at Dallas. http://www.callier.utdallas.edu/ACT/aac101_f iles/frame.htm
Augmentative and Alternative Communication – companion website for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Third Edition, by David R. Beukelman, Ph.D., and Pat Mirenda, Ph.D.; Brookes Publishing. An AAC glossary supplements the book links and contact information for disability organizations, vendors, and other resources; an updated and comprehensive reference list from the third edition. http://textbooks.brookespublishing.com/beukelmanmirenda/index.htm
SCOPE AAC Guide. A comprehensive training manual put together by Gillian Hazel on the use of AAC in education. "Supporting communication through AAC (Alternative and Augmentative Communication) Communication is a basic human right, a need and a critical part of learning. For some people communicating through speech is difficult, or slow to develop. Many people now use Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) systems. These systems supplement or support the spoken element in communication. There are different vocabularies and languages to choose from, so the individual can use the most appropriate system. 'Supporting Communication through AAC' is available to download . This package contains 12 modules produced both on paper (limited copies) and on a CD-ROM. It aims to help parents, teachers and professionals to support individuals who may benefit from using AAC. The modules are also available to download from this page as Pdfs. Each module stands alone and addresses a specific topic or a particular group of users. However, each module is cross-referenced. http://www.scope.org.uk/education/aac.php (free registration required).
Perspectives on Adults with AAC from the CALL Centre – online 33-page book includes issues for users, families, and partners; AAC in hospital setting; and more. "... it has become increasingly apparent that ongoing support is required if AAC users are going to learn and continue to use their AAC systems correctly." http://callcentre.education.ed.ac.uk/downloads/acpsbook/papers1998.pdf
Vermont Communication Initiative – "The Vermont Communication Task Force (VCTF) was established in the spring of 2000 so that adults with developmental disabilities who live in Vermont can communicate more effectively to participate fully in community life, make decisions and better advocate for themselves." Publications include a report on statewide training programs, a Resource Guide, and a Funding Guide. http://www.ddas.vermont.gov/ddas-publications/publications-dds/publications-dds-default-page#communication
California Department of Developmental Services, Direct Support Personnel Training site. The Teacher and Student Resource Guides for the Direct Support Professional Training include extensive information related to each training session, in-class activities, homework assignments, session review questions/answers, reference and resource materials. Includes chapters on Communication (verbal and nonverbal) and Making Choices. http://www.dds.ca.gov/DSPT/Guides.cfm