As a Special Education Director, one of my primary responsibilities is ensuring that our students receive the best possible support and resources. A significant aspect of this involves staying updated with the latest research and best practices, especially for students with complex communication needs who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. Recently, I came across an insightful research article titled "Practically Speaking: Language, Literacy & Academic Development for Students with AAC Needs," which provides valuable guidance for practitioners working with AAC students.
This blog post aims to summarize key takeaways from the research and offer practical tips for implementing these findings to enhance your practice.
Understanding the Research
The research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive assessment, tailored instruction, and ongoing support for students using AAC. The book is divided into three sections: Assessment, Instruction & Intervention, and Supports, each offering detailed insights and practical examples.
Key Findings and Practical Tips
1. Comprehensive Assessment
Assessment is the foundation of effective intervention. The research highlights several critical points:
- Holistic Observation: Assess students in various settings, not just within the educational context. Observations should include home and community environments to get a complete picture of the student's abilities and needs.
- Focus on Pragmatics: While vocabulary is essential, the focus should be on pragmatics—how students use language in social contexts. This should guide both assessment and intervention strategies.
- Literacy Skills: All AAC users should be considered candidates for learning to read and write independently. Use standardized tests and subtests that are applicable to AAC users to assess their literacy skills.
2. Tailored Instruction and Intervention
Effective instruction and intervention are crucial for the academic success of AAC users. The research provides several strategies:
- General Academic Adaptations: Implement academic adaptations that cater to the specific needs of AAC users. This could include modified classroom setups and individualized learning plans.
- Communication Needs: Address the communication needs of AAC users in the classroom. Ensure that they have access to appropriate AAC devices and that these devices are integrated into their daily activities.
- Supporting Literacy: Develop literacy skills by providing tailored reading and writing instruction. Use case studies and practical examples to guide your instructional strategies.
3. Ongoing Support
Providing continuous support is essential for the long-term success of AAC users. The research suggests several approaches:
- Collaborative Practices: Engage in collaborative practices with school teams and families. This ensures that everyone involved in the student's education is on the same page and working towards common goals.
- Assistive Technology Integration: Integrate assistive technology with AAC to enhance the student's learning experience. Use checklists and organizational tools to facilitate this process.
- Cognitive and Emotional Considerations: Consider the cognitive, attentional, and emotional demands placed on students using AAC systems. Tailor your interventions to address these aspects effectively.
Encouraging Further Research
While the insights provided in the research are invaluable, it's essential to stay curious and continue exploring new findings and methodologies. Here are a few ways to encourage further research:
- Stay Updated: Regularly attend conferences, webinars, and read publications related to AAC and special education. Networking with other professionals can also provide new perspectives and ideas.
- Participate in Research: If possible, participate in research studies or collaborate with researchers to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
- Implement and Share: Implement the findings from the research in your practice and share your experiences with your peers. This not only helps you refine your skills but also contributes to the collective knowledge of the community.
In conclusion, the research article "Practically Speaking: Language, Literacy & Academic Development for Students with AAC Needs" offers valuable insights and practical strategies for practitioners working with AAC students. By implementing these findings and staying engaged with ongoing research, we can continue to improve our practice and provide the best possible support for our students.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Practically Speaking: Language, Literacy & Academic Development for Students with AAC Needs.
