Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is any tool or strategy that helps a person communicate when speech is hard to use or understand. AAC can be as simple as a picture board or as advanced as a speech-generating device. These guides explain the basics, the types of devices, and the ways a person can use them. They are written for families, educators, speech-language pathologists, and other professionals.
Communication & AAC, AAC Basics, Speech-Generating Devices, and AAC Access Methods cover augmentative and alternative communication. For how AAC supports curriculum access and classroom participation specifically, see Academic AAC: Communication, Curriculum Access, and Classroom Participation.
This page is provided for general educational purposes and is maintained by The Accessibility Clinic Inc. Assistive technology needs vary by individual, task, environment, and goals, so the examples described here do not constitute individualized recommendations. For an individualized evaluation, see AssistiveTechnologyEvaluations.org.