AAC Myths

Common misconceptions about AAC and its effects on communication

"AAC will make it so that my learner never speaks."

Will AAC stop a person from learning to speak? - AssistiveWareAugmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) won't stop someone from learning to speak. This article, based on research, explains why.

Are there prerequisites for AAC? - AssistiveWareAAC is blocked when users are required to prove themselves as ready and worthy. Presuming competence is the key to unlock communication. Here's why.

"My learner does not yet meet the prerequisites

to use AAC."

"My learner is too young for AAC."

This unsubstantiated argument is typically used as a means of denying access to AAC. Read more here.

When speech is unreliable: Part-time AAC use - AssistiveWareEnsure that all people have multiple communication tools to express their ideas. Respect each person's choice of communication tool including part-time AAC.

"My learner doesn't need AAC, they already speak!"

"AAC is only for requesting basic wants and needs."

Communication Functions: All the reasons we communicate - AssistiveWareCommunication isn't just about requesting. There are many other reasons to communicate. We tell a story or a joke, ask for and give information, etc. This article explores communication functions and gives advice on how to expand the AAC user's world.

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