The Use of Alternative Augmentative Communication in Children and Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Critical Review
Current Developmental Disorders Reports
Ciarmoli, D., & Stasolla, F. (2023).
Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 10(1), 14-19.
This systematic review investigates the effects of technology-free, low-tech, and high-tech alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) on communication for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Not stated
2000-2020
Empirical, evidence-based studies
11
<div>For children on the autism spectrum, AAC intervention without technology (e.g., picture exchange communication symbols (PECS), visual schedules) improved outcomes such as increased requesting (including improvised requests) with use of PECS, increased verbal communication and social-communicative behavior, and decreased aggressive behaviors.</div>
<div>Medium-technology aids (e.g., pre-recorded messages) improved requesting, functional communication, and repair of communicative interruptions for individuals on the autism spectrum and individuals with developmental disabilities including those with complex communication and cognitive needs.</div>
<div>Use of high-tech AAC devices (e.g., speech-generating devices) led to increased requests for items and continued actions as well as reduced problem behaviors for children on the autism spectrum.</div>
<div>For individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, the use of AAC has yielded positive outcomes such as improved independence, functional communication, participation in activities of daily living, and quality of life.</div>
