Augmentative Communication

After working in a D75 classroom for children with severe and multiple disabilties, I have had much experience with augmentative communication devices. In our single classroom, we had multiple different kinds of communication devices (that were both lo and hi tech) including a GoTalk, PECS and a dynavox. These devices really allowed our students to participate and become involved in class discussions and lessons. If it weren't for these devices, it would have been extremely difficult for them to do so. We had students who were ESL learners in addition to not being able to speak or use their expressive language abilities, so these devices really served as instructional technology.

When considering whether a student used a communication device as either adaptational or instructional technology, I usually try to decipher whether or not they could learn without the device (instructional), or if it was simply just a modification that enhanced their learning (adaptational). With respect to my students they had varying disabilities. One of my students had Cerebral Palsy, so it was very difficult for him to maintain both fine motor control and receptive language expression. Therefore, his Dynavox very much aided him in an instructional way. I do not think he would have been able to participate without his Dynavox. Therefore, I would consider this an instructional technology.

However, for our student that implemented PECS, he also knew sign language and had limited expressive language abilties. Therefore, PECS really just helped him by enhancing his ability to speak. Therefore, I would say that this was an adaptational use of technology.

For my student who used the GoTalk, he used it in more of an instructional way. He did not speak and was not ambulatory, therefore without his GoTalk (which was implemented by hand over hand with his paraprofessional), he would not have been able to participate at all. In fact this was vital for his membership in the classroom, so we as teachers knew if he was OK or needed something.

As far as the learning profiles, Sarah, with ataxic CP, uses an augmentative communication device - SmartScan. I would also determine just from the summary that this serves as an instructional form of technology because it allows Sarah to participate, when otherwise she would not be able to.

Additionally, Sam, who as an expressive written language disability, could probably benefit from a computer or typepad. Could this be considered an augmentative communication device in this circumstance?

I think it is amazing how far technology has come, and how we are able to help our students who struggle with expressive communication! Without these devices, these students would really not be able to participate. They literally are life changing. It is exciting for what may happen in the future. what kind of devices do you think we may have in 10 or 20 years? Will more students be able to be accessed and involved?