Augmentative Communication System at Home and in the Community

Having the augmentative communication device integrated into the IEP for a student at school is very important. What happens when the student is at the home or in the community? What needs to be done for that student, so they can continue to succeed with using the device?  For students’ with an augmentative communication system it is crucial that the support and same social objectives be continued at the home and in the community setting. This is important, because it helps the student to continue using the device in different setting which can be difficult. Training for the family to use the augmentative communication should be provided.

In my personal experience, I have worked with a student who used one of these systems and the parents’ received several trainings of how to use the system at home. This really helped the whole family become familiar with the vocabulary needed and in turn helped the student succeed with using the system at home.

In the community setting, many people are not familiar with augmentative communication systems. This can cause many challenges for the student who needs one to communicate. By having things like field trips and activities that will allow the student to have positive experiences with using the augmentative communication system in an community will build confidence for the student and also allow it not to be such a scary and challenging thing to do.

I think this is a great idea for schools to plan, especially with students who do not have positive experiences with using their augmentative communication system in a community setting.

References:

Dell, A; Newton, G and Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experience of Students with Disabilities. Pearson Education.