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Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) is an area of speech-language pathology that focuses on the assessment and treatment of individuals who have difficulty communicating verbally. AAC interventions can range from low-tech to high-tech devices and systems. Selecting the right AAC system for an individual can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we discuss low tech vs high tech AAC devices and provide tips for choosing the right AAC system for an individual’s needs.

Low Tech vs High Tech AAC Devices

AAC devices can be broadly classified as low tech or high tech. Low tech AAC devices are typically less expensive and require less maintenance than high tech AAC devices. They are often portable and easy to use, making them a good option for children who are just beginning to use AAC. Common low tech AAC devices include picture communication boards and books, visual schedules, and simple switch devices which can play a short, pre-recorded message when accessed by the AAC user. Low-tech AAC can also include items such as pencil and paper or a dry erase board and marker which can be used to communicate needs and choices.

High tech AAC devices are typically more expensive and require more maintenance than low tech AAC devices. However, they offer many features that low tech devices do not, such as the ability to generate speech output, a robust vocabulary, and the ability to store large amounts of information. High tech AAC devices are a great option to support functional communication regardless of current skill level. Research has shown that use of, and implementation of high-tech AAC does not require prerequisite cognitive or linguistic skills. Rather, we assume competence and teach the use of the device, aiming high to promote growing skills and hopefully independent complex communication. 

Tips for Choosing the Right System 

Now let’s talk about how to choose the right system for an individual’s needs. When choosing an AAC system, it is important to consider the following factors:  

• The individual’s age, interests, and abilities 
• The level of support needed to use the system effectively 
• The size, weight, and durability of the device 

It is also important to keep in mind that no two individuals are alike, so what works for one person may not work for another. With that said, here are a few general tips that may help you choose the right system for an individual with ASD: 

1.) Assume competence. Allow the Individual to use the system that best fits their needs, whether that be low-tech or high-tech. Choose a system that supports ongoing growth and development or increasingly more complex language. 

2.) Choose a system that is portable and easy to carry around so that it can be used in different environments (e.g., home, school, therapy). Make sure that the system is then available to the child in all environments to support functional communication in all settings. 

3.) Select a system that is durable enough to withstand being dropped or thrown (which may happen frequently at first!).  

4.) Make sure the system you choose has features and a robust vocabulary that can be added to or modified as the individual’s needs change over time.

5.) Model, model, model! Make sure that the AAC user knows how to use their device, model language, expand language, and use AAC during interactions with the individual. 

As you can see, there are many things to consider when choosing an augmentative alternative communication system for a child with an autism spectrum disorder. Please seek out the expertise of a licensed speech-language pathologist who can conduct a comprehensive AAC assessment to best determine what systems and supports would be best for your child.

Watch our latest webinar on this topic here: