AAC in the Classroom

• AAC in the Classroom

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    This topic looks at:

    • The importance of communication on a child’s self-confidence
    • How to embed symbols into classroom activities
    • How to use symbols around the classroom to support comprehension

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    Children learning language in the classroom

    Never forget to remind yourself about the importance of language in developing confident young individuals. The role of the classroom with its complex interplay of social dynamics is vital for children to develop an understanding of language and the important pragmatic social skills that accompany it. Being part of this group, and the communication that is required for this, is vital for a child to develop confidence and a sense of agency. Children that can’t communicate do not learn to speak for themselves. Communication aids and effective classroom support can change this. 

    Of course this applies to children who communicate using AAC as well as for those who do not. So how do we set up a classroom to help children who use AAC to engage, learn and socialise? 

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    Activity - Thinking about classrooms

    Take a moment to consider how changes to a classroom might improve the experience for a communication aid user. 

    Consider our case study, Fiona, or a child you are familiar with.  Read how she is being encouraged to take part in the classroom activities. Note down your thoughts in your reflective journal. 
    

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    The physical space

    Some of the easiest problems to solve involve physical space for paper-based and electronic aids, places to securely store the aids and points to charge the high-tech devices. These can be seen as practical issues and are usually straightforward to correct. Ask yourself questions such as:

    • For high-tech devices can it be heard by the teacher and peers? 
    • Is it safe to use high-tech devices during gym, music and art? 
    • Is there enough space on desks for low-tech devices such as communication books?
    • How far away is the charging point?
    • Where can a communication partner sit to help the AAC user during class time?

    
    

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    A supportive place to learn symbols

    Many AAC users share classrooms with children who do not use AAC. Using  communication symbols throughout the classroom helps everybody as they are picture labels that help children who are learning to read and write, as well as normalise the use of symbols for the AAC user. Examples of symbols in classrooms include now and next boards, visual timetables, storage labelling and social stories. 

    Making a visual timetable can be a matching game with different areas for the various activities. 
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    The role of the people in the classroom

    However just as importantly, if not more so, is the human support from teachers, teaching assistants, and the AAC user’s peers in the classroom. One of the most important roles is that of the ‘communication partner’ - the people who communicate with the AAC user.  Having an assistant or carer using the AAC system or device with a young child, learning to communication will help them to become more integrated into the daily routines as well as a more independent member of the class.  The importance of the communication partner's role will become more apparent as we work through the levels. 

    
    

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    Class Activities

    Any activity that the child engages in can, and should, involve their symbol communication aid. Examples include:

    • Symbols can be used everywhere, just like speech. Expect to use the communication aid with all activities, indoor and out.
    • Shared reading is a great way to introduce reading and increase symbol vocabulary through modelling.
    • Another effective activity is singing – again using the communication aid alongside your voice.
    • It can be very effective to get peers involved, for example the AAC user could direct a game of ‘Simon Says’ using his communication aid. 

    Here is an example of Simon Says game using Avaz AAC app (YouTube Transcript available)
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    Activity - Reflecting on Using AAC

    

    Have a look at this blog from PrAACtical AAC: How We Do It: AAC in the Special Education Classroom .  You may find some useful ideas. 
    

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    Summary 

    • Learning to become a competent communicator using AAC gives the child the confidence to consider them self as an person with their own interests
    • Symbols used around the classroom helps AAC users understand more uses of symbols
    • Symbols used around the classroom also help AAC users to appreciate that symbols are an acceptable way to communicate
    • There are great online resources to help you get started.
      

    
    

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    Further Reading 

    Articles with ideas for using AAC in the classroom
    

    • 54 tips and tricks for implementing Alternative and Augmentative Communication in the classroom
    • Strategies for engaging autistic students in the Classroom
    • Augmentative Communication and Classroom Learning Considerations (created in 2004 but has useful forms and ideas).

    You can make resources using software and websites such as: 
    

    • Autism Circuit
    • PrAACtically Visual: More Supports for Your Toolbox
    • Do2Learn
    • TeachersPayTeachers
    • Boardmaker 
    • Widgit Online
    • LessonPix
    • Global Symbols BoardBuilder

    You can also use Microsoft Word, making use of photos, online pictures and free symbols:
    

    • Global Symbols
    • Open Symbols

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    Reflective Journal 

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    Journal

    Reflective Journal
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    Presentation slides

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    URL

    Using AAC in the Classroom URL