I have come across AAC devices in the past and i think they are fantastic for those individuals who cannot communicate any other way. However, I feel that it should be a last resort. For example, a child who has autism and is non-verbal would benefit from a AAC device, but I believe they should be taught sign language is possible and the AAC devise is used as a back up. AAC devices should be used if completely necessary and not as a crutch.
The one thing I did learn about ACC and other devices was that there are many programs through the state and other services. I was happy to learn this because i would not want money to get in the way of a individual communicating with others.
I couldn't agree more with your notion of ACC being used as a last resort type of thing! Although these implementations are used in so many ways that assist students in all aspects of life, the main focus shouldn't be on RELYING on these devises for living, more as letter the devises ASSIST us.
ReplyDeleteI honestly disagree with your idea of ATs being used as a last resort, but I certainly see where you are coming from! Personally, my stance is we are living in a technological age, every single person is going to have to live with and use technology in their lives - and why not, it makes live much easier! - regardless of if a person has a disability or not. But again, I understand and appreciate where you are coming from with that, we do not want our students becoming passive with their efforts!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure I agree with the last resort idea either. Do you think using your voice and vocalizing at school should be a last resort for typically developing students? As you know assistive or augmentative tools are making things easier-- they are making things equal. If you are blind, how might you go about reading printed material? Having a text to speech tool is a requirement for your equal participation. It isn't a luxury-- and it is also the law.
ReplyDeleteWere there specific tools that you had in mind when thinking of it as a last resort? Do you have a particular scenario you were thinking of?