Course description
This self-paced online course supports students who need an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system to express their diverse personal messages and intentions. AAC is the term used for all communication methods used to enhance or replace verbal speech.
The course contains seven modules and takes approximately two hours to complete. Once you have completed the Communication Partner Training modules, you will have access to additional videos and training resources relevant to specific AAC systems (Proloquo2Go, LAMP, Key Word Sign, PODD, TD Snap with PODD), tips on goal setting and access to a range of visual supports.
To be able to communicate effectively is a basic human right. It is essential to human relationships, learning, participation in life and sense of self. The Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) is committed to ensuring a student’s right to communicate and genuine participation within their school communities.
Some students who attend DECYP schools experience a Communication Disability (CD).
These students may use an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system to communicate their varied range or personal messages and intentions.
AAC is the term used for all communication methods used to enhance or replace verbal speech.
Students who have an AAC system need a lot of support over time so that they can learn to use it efficiently and effectively.
Communication partners (all the people who interact with the student) play a vital role in this.
This course aims to give you the skills to be an effective communication partner so that you can support your student in the use of their AAC system.
Course outcomes
- What is communication and why is it important
- What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- To understand common myths about AAC
- To understand the importance of the communication partner
- To learn strategies to support AAC users
- To learn and practise modelling techniques
- To learn how to create communication opportunities