3c. Example - Modules and Topics based on AAC Themes

Updated by Global Symbols with UNICEF ECARO

In this is the original set of topics in English for seven modules with themes running through each module.

Module 1

  • Principles of early intervention

Module 2

  • Functional assessment and defining individual support plans and intervention goals
  • Building upon referral and screening assessments
  • Identifying technology and strategies for inclusion
  • Introducing the SETT Framework
  • Understanding the needs of the student
  • The influence of environment on options
  • What tasks and objectives do we want to address?
  • What technology is available
  • Producing a report for individual support
  • Key issues for implementation

Module 3

  • Understanding the scope and uses of AT for AAC regarding Cboard (and other suitable apps available)
  • Using AAC in the classroom
  • Building and designing boards for communication
  • AAC progression from single message to Tablet solutions
  • Activities for AAC in the classroom
  • Planning for progression

Bridging activities (allowing a gap between Module 3 and 4 if delivered across two weeks)

  • Identify 3 children you work with
  • What technology do they currently use?
  • What strategies are currently in place?
  • Apply the SETT framework to suggest some initial next steps

Module 4

  • Feature matching for children with complex communication needs
  • Choosing core/fringe vocabularies and symbols
  • Choosing input methods
  • Mounting
  • Positioning
  • Integrating technology with other solutions

Module 5

  • Approaches to working with children AAC users and parents.
  • Engaging families/carers in AAC
  • Understanding the needs of families/carers
  • The role of the extended family/carers
  • Activities for parental/carer child interactions
  • Sibling/peer interaction
  • Designing activities for progression – games

Module 6

  • Further access and emerging technologies
  • Identifying unmet needs
  • Emerging technology and innovation for access
  • Eye Pointing
  • BCI (Brain-computer interface)
  • AAC and Environmental Control

Module 7

  • Evaluating success
  • PIADS (The Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scales)
  • Review of learning
  • Case studies of learners – options for communication
  • Action planning
  • Submission requirements for the course
  • Develop a case study of one of your learners – what solutions would you suggest
  • Trial your solution and evaluate success
  • PIADS and other evidence

Extra materials online including additional slide presentations in English available for adaptation and translation.