AACbased

AACbased is a label used in education, healthcare, and technology to describe systems, practices, or research that are grounded in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) principles. It encompasses approaches that prioritize communication for individuals with significant speech or language impairments, using symbol-based, text-based, or hybrid modalities and emphasizing user-centered design.

Applications include dedicated AAC devices, software apps for tablets, and integrated communication interfaces that support multiple modalities (symbols, text, speech output) and access methods (touch, eye gaze, switches). AACbased solutions are designed to be customizable to individual users, including symbol sets, languages, literacy levels, and partner-supported communication.

Design and evaluation consider accessibility, usability, and interoperability with other devices and systems. Important factors include clinical or educational fit, training for users and partners, privacy and data security, and the potential for ongoing updates to symbol banks and vocabularies.

Benefits cited include improved participation in daily activities, enhanced language development, and greater independence. Challenges include cost, availability of trained professionals, variability in individual needs, and ensuring ongoing support and maintenance.

See also: Augmentative and Alternative Communication; assistive technology; inclusive education; speech-language pathology.