Fundamentals of AAC

The
second edition of Fundamentals of AAC: A Case-Based Approach to
Enhancing Communication continues to be a course-friendly textbook
designed to walk readers through the theoretical and clinical underpinnings of
assessment, intervention, and consultation for individuals with complex
communication needs across the lifespan. Augmentative and alternative
communication (AAC) encompasses a variety of communication methods and is used
by those with a wide range of speech and language impairments. With a
consistent framework and descriptive case studies, as well as input from
various stakeholders, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the
needs of persons who use AAC and how to provide them with ethically and
culturally considerate support.



Unlike
other texts on this topic, this book empowers the reader to visualize AAC in
action. Each chapter offers evidence-based information about the topic along
with a case study. The case studies combined with short essays from various
stakeholders illustrate the variety of ways in which AAC can enhance an
individual's connection with their communication partners and community, and
the role of the speech-language pathologist as integral to this process.



Intended
to easily translate into a 6-, 8-, or 13-week semester course, this textbook is
divided into seven distinct sections:





Section I provides an
overview of AAC, no-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech AAC systems, as well as
mobile technology and advancing technology.
Section II discusses
cultural and linguistic responsivity and how this underlies AAC systems
and services.
Section III reviews AAC
assessment, intervention and implementation for toddlers, preschoolers,
and school-aged individuals, along with goal-writing and data collection.
Section IV covers
assessment, intervention, and implementation for young adults and adults
needing AAC.
Section V offers the
reader detailed information and rich examples of the application of AAC
for persons with developmental disabilities.
Section VI provides the
theoretical foundation and exemplar case studies of AAC for persons with
acquired disabilities.
Section VII details
consultation and training for various stakeholders, as well as tele-AAC
services.



New to
the Second Edition





A chapter dedicated to
AAC and literacy
Updated information
about technology advancements, including artificial intelligence, extended
reality, and automation
New photos and videos
Updated intervention
resources
Report-writing tools
Improved instructor
tools



Key
Features





Overviews with key terms
set the stage for each section
36 case studies with
questions and visuals to clearly depict each case



Boxes with practical tips and expert advice