4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

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Online Degrees | Blog | Technology and Therapy: The Use of AAC Devices in Applied Behavior
Analysis

Technology and Therapy: The Use of AAC Devices in

Applied Behavior Analysis
Articles | Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis

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4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) states, “AAC

includes all of the ways we share our ideas and feelings without talking.” An
example of AAC is American Sign Language (ASL), which deaf or hard-of-
hearing people use to communicate. Other examples include digital devices
that help convey the thoughts and feelings of nonverbal individuals, as well as
facial expressions and text messages that serve the same purpose.

For individuals hoping to help those with difficulties or limitations in

communicating, an online Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
program can prepare them to understand the benefits of AAC devices to
encourage appropriate behaviors and how the proper use of AAC devices may
be taught. In particular, AAC devices are beneficial in behavior therapy, as
they allow patients to express emotion and understand how to adjust their
behavior to improve their overall health. Take a look at how AAC devices help
shape the field of behavior therapy.

Defining AAC
Augmentative and alternative communication refers to any type of
communication that does not take place through speech. In a professional or
clinical setting, this type of communication may include an individual with a
mental health condition who uses a digital device to speak with others. In a
more casual environment, it could be two friends writing and mailing letters
to each other from different parts of the country.

According to ASHA, there are two primary categories of AAC: unaided systems
and aided systems. Unaided systems refer to any type of communication that
doesn’t involve speech and doesn’t require anything but a person’s body. This
could include smiling to communicate happiness or gratitude, a hand wave to
signify a greeting or hello, and crossed arms to express disappointment or
nervousness.

Aided systems incorporate some sort of device to make nonverbal

LEARN
communication MORE
possible. ForABOUT
two friendsOUR
writingONLINE MSABA
letters, pens, paper, and
envelopes constitute the device. For a nonverbal person, the device may be
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4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

an iPad, which allows the individual to create messages, or a speech-

generating device (SGD), which creates audio messages based on user input.

Both aided and unaided AAC systems can be used in behavior analysis to help
individuals achieve improved  behavior outcomes. Many times, behavior
analysts work with individuals to help them adopt more socially valued verbal
behaviors, and AAC devices can sometimes be helpful in that regard.

For example, a nonverbal child with autism exhibiting undesirable behavior

can use a speech-generating device to express his or her thoughts and
emotions more clearly. In these situations, behavior therapists may work with
speech language pathologists to determine which type of AAC or speech-
generating device may best help a person achieve a more desirable behavior
outcome. These professionals work together to identify behavior problems
directly caused by speech and communication skills and how they can be
resolved.

The Types of AAC

Although there are multiple AAC devices and methods, there are common
types that behavior therapists and speech pathologists may use when working
with patients. Unaided AAC, such as hand gestures, facial expressions, and
bodily movements, does not require any sort of tech device. Aided AAC,
however, is broken up into two categories: low-tech and high-tech. Low-tech
AAC includes items such as a whiteboard with a marker, as well as
photographs and drawings. High-tech AAC includes speech-generating devices,
software or apps, and other recordable devices that can create and enhance
communication, according to ASHA. Depending on the person and his or her
unique conditions and challenges, many approaches and techniques may be
used to build an AAC system. For example, a nonverbal person may use a
speech-generating device when communicating with family at home but a
whiteboard or tablet when speaking with acquaintances in public settings.

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Below are examplesMORE ABOUT
of high-tech OUR
AAC devices. ONLINE MSABA

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4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

This form of AAC can be an independent tablet or a program that is

downloaded onto a device, such as an iPad. Picture tablets commonly display
a grid of individual pictures that correlate to specific emotions or messages.
When an individual presses one of these images, the app emits a verbal
message. Picture tablets are particularly helpful for individuals who have
limited speech capacity or are completely nonverbal.

Alphabet-Driven Devices
These devices can be useful for individuals who are nonverbal or who have
difficulty speaking but are able to express themselves coherently through
language, such as individuals who have ALS or another degenerative
condition. With this type of device, the user looks at an on-screen alphabet or
text system, and the device generates audio messages based on the user’s eye
movement or other buttons or physical cues. This enables the user to “speak”
through the voice of the computer.

Tactile Symbol Buttons

Similar to a picture tablet, this type of AAC device enables an individual to
express a thought or emotion using buttons that correlate to specific
messages. For example, blind or nonverbal people can press one tactile
symbol button to indicate that they are hungry and another button to indicate
they need to use a restroom.

Visual Scene Displays

Visual scene displays are a type of AAC device that can help individuals
develop their language with the use of imagery. For example, in a visual
scene display, a child might look at a personal photograph featuring a family
visit to an exotic destination. “They capture the social interactions that are
the contexts in which young children learn language and communication
skills, and they replicate these contexts within AAC systems, thus providing
visual contextual supports for the children’s language learning and use,”
explainsLEARN
an article MORE ABOUT OUR
from the Augmentative ONLINECommunication
and Alternative MSABA
Journal.
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4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

The Skills Needed for Effective AAC Usage

AAC technology can be immensely helpful in addressing behavior challenges
and bridging communication and language gaps. But to ensure that AAC has
the strongest impact on individuals, therapists need to possess the following
skills.

Empathy Toward Verbally Challenged Persons

A behavior therapist familiar with AAC likely has a deep understanding of the
benefits of certain communication tools. However, it may be the first time
the behavior therapist’s patient is using these types of tools, and he or she
may encounter a learning barrier.

Behavior therapists need to ensure that they express empathy and patience
when using AAC to help individuals struggling with communication.

Strong Communication
Behavior therapists may also communicate with patients’ families, friends,
and teachers, as well as other involved parties. As such, it’s crucial that
therapists be able to clearly and concisely explain AAC devices, strategies and
methods, desired outcomes, and patients’ progress. Additionally, behavior
therapists can also help explain what to expect as those individuals monitor
the use of an AAC device.

Passion for Innovation

New technology may enhance AAC procedures and help improve patient
outcomes. Behavior therapists don’t have to purchase every new AAC-related
gadget or device, but they should keep an eye open for new technology that
can assist them in providing stronger therapy to patients.

Critical Thinking
One AAC device or strategy that proved to be beneficial to a person with a
LEARN
communication MORE
disorder mayABOUT
not be the OUR
best fit ONLINE MSABA
for another person with
similar challenges. Behavior therapists need to think critically when deciding
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what AAC approach to use, as well as set realistic goals and expectations for
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4/5/2021 Technology and Therapy: The Use of ACC Devices - Regis College Online

the therapy. AAC may not solve all communication issues, but it can help
people to forge stronger relationships and live more   lives.

Improve Communication and Change Lives Through AAC

Behavior therapists make a positive difference in the lives of countless
individuals who may be struggling with behavioral issues related to language
and communication. With their knowledge and utilization of AAC, they help to
ensure that patients and clients have the ability to communicate their
thoughts and feelings to others. Regis College’s online Master of Science in
Applied Behavior Analysis program prepares students to become effective
behavior therapists who understand AAC and how it facilitates communication
and expression. Discover how you can make a difference today.

Recommended Reading:

Ensuring Quality and Efficiency: Clinical Supervisor Job Description

How to Encourage Positive Behavior in Developing Children

Leadership in Applied Behavior Analysis: What is a Clinical Director?

Sources

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), AAC Systems

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Augmentative and

Alternative Communication (AAC)

Augmentative and Alternative Communication, “New and Emerging AAC

Technology Supports for Children with Complex Communication Needs and
Their Communication Partners: State of the Science and Future Research
Directions”
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Boston Children’s Hospital, “AAC and Vision Impairment”
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Cigna, Speech Generating Devices

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