Activity #1
Please download the below free AAC application on your mobile phone to practice using the tool https://www.weavechat.com/.https://
We also recommend referring to the application’s Youtube channel for tips and tricks on using the application. The link to the channel is HERE.
Throughout this activity, learners will get to experience learning AAC devices in a practical hands-on session.
The learners will pair up and use an AAC device to try to experience inclusive communication with communicative intent. The pairs will get the opportunity to try communicating with the devices and guide the other learner with communicative intent. Communicative intent is a key factor in using the devices with non-verbal students. If there is no intent with the communication, the individual may have nothing to express they may not communicate (Visvader, 2013).
The Activity:
· Each pair will engage in a task where communication and self-expression are needed.
· The goal is for one partner to get the task and use the device to communicate needs or thoughts to the other partner, getting experience with using and understanding the device.
· The tasks could include ideas like:
- Request reinstatement of a preferred activity/item
- Refuse a non-preferred activity/item
- Choose between two items (both preferred)
- Choose between two items (one preferred and one non-preferred) and more than two items
- Comment on the item and/or activity (Visvader, 2013)
Practicing these tasks on the AAC device would allow for the learner to get a real experience with real-world examples to help them better understand AAC devices and their benefits for communication and self-expression.
Activity #2
After usage, please watch and complete the interactive video: https://edpuzzle.com/media/66a7f884e0790b1a9588e871
Learner responses are required and will be recorded for completion. The correct answer will be provided immediately after each question is answered.