Communication

AAC

Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Definition

AAC is an area of clinical practice and a category of assistive technology that supplements or replaces spoken or written communication for individuals with complex communication needs. AAC spans unaided modes (sign, gesture) and aided modes (picture-exchange, speech-generating devices, app-based systems). Core-vocabulary research shows fewer than 400 words account for approximately 80% of everyday utterances (Banajee, Dicarlo & Stricklin 2003, AAC Journal 19(2):67-73).

Regulatory Citation

34 CFR §300.5, §300.6 (AT device and services); UN CRPD Article 21

Example in Practice

A nonverbal 8-year-old with autism uses a speech-generating device organized on a Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) grid where each word occupies a fixed motor-planning location across all contexts.

Key Research Citations

·Beukelman & Light (2020) — Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 5th ed.
·Ganz, Earles-Vollrath, Heath et al. (2012, J Autism & Developmental Disorders) — AAC meta-analysis
·Sennott, Light & McNaughton (2016, Research & Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities 41(2):101-115) — AAC modeling review
·Banajee, Dicarlo & Stricklin (2003, AAC Journal 19(2):67-73) — Core vocabulary frequency

Full bibliography available on the Research page.

Related Terms

AT SLP

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This glossary entry is educational. It is not legal or clinical advice. Consult a qualified attorney or licensed clinician before making decisions that rely on this summary.