Journal 8

Augmentative and alternative communication is a broad term that includes replacements to speach and writing for those that need it

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Above: Dynavox's Keyboard

Dynavox is a company that provides a voice for those that need one.  By pushing the picture of the desired item or outcome, the dynavox reproduces words for the indivudual.  

An input device for someone with special needs is non traditional communication.  The device allows the thoughts to be communicated and usually provides a mouth for the person.  One device I thought was clever was a non traditional keyboard.  These keyboards are more durable and can be tailored to the individual that needs a seperate input device.

Dynavox's non traditional keyboard is more than a simple keyboard.  It employs predictive technology, so that an indivudual does not have to spell out a complete sentence for something that they may say relatively often.  "Good night Mother" is one such example where they may only have to type in the first few letters in order to get their idea across.

The other feature of this keyboard is that the output device can be sound.  So instead of showing up on a screen, the output can be reproduced as sound waves.

The Dynavox Keyboard is used in the classroom to enable and encourage participation from those that might otherwise be unable to fully participate.

The low tech device that this keyboard replaces is the communication flip book.  A flip book is a way for those that use alternative communication to communicate meaningfully and quickly.  Here is a great picture of  flipbook, which does not use batteries:

Both of these are input devices, or items that someone that uses AAC to input their desired communication.  A flip book can also be used in the classroom.  A flip book allows communication without batteries and is much less cumbersome than the above mentioned Dynavox Keyboard.