Individuals can purchase these programs and set them up on their own, or they can obtain them through the use of a communication therapist at a school, a program, or any other type of services that someone may receive. Depending on the needs of the individual there are various types of programs and applications one can use on an iPad or a tablet. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write" (Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation). " Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. For this website I will focus on augmentative communication devices, eye gaze, and switches. The types of technology that help individuals with communication are augmentative communication devices, eye gaze, switches, and low-tech items such as visual schedules and models. A person's quality of life is greatly impacted by their ability to communicate.
Not to mention that not being able to communicate makes it difficult to form relationships and friendships with people, an aspect of life that everyone should be entitled to. "Everyone has the desire and the ability to communicate despite physical and neurological challenges" (The Center for AAC and Autism). That being said, without communication it can be difficult to know when someone needs help or is in pain. For those who cannot communicate on their own life is very tough in that they are often misunderstood because they cannot get their ideas, wishes/wants, and needs out to others. For this project I will focus on the types of assistive technologies that help individuals with their communication needs.Īssistive technology has such a diverse range of benefits to individuals, however, one of the most common uses for assistive technology is in communication. There are countless apps that can assist individuals with almost any task, and many tactile resources as well. There are many different types of assistive technology that can help someone with something as simple as recording a lecture or calculating a math problem, to devices that help non-verbal individuals communicate with the world. "The Technology Related Assistance to Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 (Tech Act) first described an assistive technology device as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."" (Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center). Assistive t echnology comes in many forms and is extremely beneficial to those with disabilities especially those who have communication challenges.
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