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Exploring AAC Assessment Tools: Finding the Right Fit for Communication Needs
Effective communication is essential for everyone, including individuals with complex communication needs (CCN). Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) assessment plays a crucial role in identifying the most suitable communication strategies and tools for an individual. A comprehensive AAC assessment involves evaluating various aspects of communication ability, including cognitive, motor, linguistic, and social factors. Several AAC assessment tools are available to help professionals determine the best-fit AAC solution. Below, we explore some widely used AAC assessment tools and their applications.
1. AAC Profile: A Continuum of Learning
This tool provides a structured framework to assess an individual’s AAC skills across multiple domains, such as communicative competence, operational use, and social interaction. It helps professionals track progress over time and tailor interventions accordingly.
Best for: Identifying strengths and areas for growth in AAC users.
2. Dynamic AAC Goals Grid (DAGG-2)
The DAGG-2 is a practical assessment tool designed to guide clinicians in setting AAC goals. It categorizes communication development into different skill levels, allowing professionals to determine where an individual is and what their next steps should be.
Best for: Establishing personalized and measurable AAC intervention goals.
3. Communication Matrix
A widely used assessment for individuals with severe communication impairments, the Communication Matrix evaluates early communication behaviors. It helps identify how a person expresses themselves (e.g., gestures, facial expressions, AAC devices) and provides a foundation for communication development.
Best for: Assessing early communicators and those with severe disabilities.
4. Test of Aided-Communication Symbol Performance (TASP)
TASP assesses an individual’s ability to use AAC symbols effectively. It evaluates skills such as symbol recognition, categorization, and syntax use, helping to determine appropriate vocabulary sets and symbol arrangements for AAC systems.
Best for: Selecting appropriate symbols and layouts for AAC devices.
5. Social Networks: A Communication Inventory for Individuals with Complex Communication Needs
This tool focuses on evaluating an AAC user’s communication partners and social interactions. It helps professionals understand how an individual communicates within different social contexts and identifies opportunities for improving participation.
Best for: Enhancing social communication and expanding interaction opportunities.
6. Functional Communication Profile-Revised (FCP-R)
The FCP-R is a comprehensive assessment tool that evaluates an individual’s communication skills across various settings and functions. It examines receptive and expressive communication, motor speech, and social interaction abilities.
Best for: Conducting a broad evaluation of communication abilities in multiple environments.
7. SETT Framework (Student, Environment, Tasks, and Tools)
Although not a formal test, the SETT framework is a widely used decision-making tool for AAC assessment. It considers the user’s needs, environmental factors, communication tasks, and available tools to determine the most effective AAC solution.
Best for: Making holistic, team-based AAC decisions.
Choosing the Right AAC Assessment Tool
Selecting the best AAC assessment tool depends on the individual’s unique needs, abilities, and communication goals. Often, professionals use a combination of these tools to gain a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s communication strengths and challenges. A thorough assessment ensures that the chosen AAC system enhances communication, promotes independence, and improves quality of life.
Final Thoughts
AAC assessment is an evolving and dynamic process that requires ongoing evaluation and adjustment. By leveraging the right tools and approaches, speech-language pathologists, educators, and caregivers can help individuals with complex communication needs find their voice and thrive in their communication journey.
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