Abstract:

A considerable number of studies have demonstrated the benefits of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for children with complex communication needs, especially in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

However, although there is a substantial body of literature regarding the effectiveness of different AAC systems (high tech and low tech), there is a general tendency for AAC systems to be abandoned after a period of time. The reasons appear to be varied, but the research underlines a few pivotal points, including an approach to the AAC system without an established teaching methodology. An interesting finding, moreover, shows how abandonment affects different AAC systems in a transversal way, whether they are Speech Generating Devices (SGD) or Low tech systems (PECS, Signs).

The following study shows how, after one year of use, the percentage of abandonment of a Speech Generator Device (SGD) based on a precise teaching procedure, is lower than the body of research present in the literature so far, offering food for thought on the use and dissemination of AAC systems.

Keywords:

AAC, Communication, Autism, Special Needs, SGD, PECS.