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AAC Devices and Special Education: Will they be Replaced by More Versatile and more Engaging Technology?


In the last 20 years, computer technology has been rapidly developing and improving to the point where it is easy to see the direction it is heading. Intergraded into our daily lives, technology has truly become something that offers expediency and efficiency, while at the same time captivating and intriguing its users. Technology has become a tremendous asset in education as well. Computerizing tedious and large amounts of data such as library catalogs, using a Smart Board as opposed to a white board, and the use of a laptop instead of pen and paper are only some of the ways technology has significantly changed and even improved the way the educational system functions. Why? Because technology offers a diverse range of options of when, where, and how tasks can be done. In short, technology has become extremely versatile. In the world of special education, however, technology that is aimed at assisting students with diverse and special needs seems to have halted approximately 20 years ago. One example of this notion can be seen in the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices that are very commonly used in most special education classrooms.

AAC Devices and Special Education Students


Depending on the individual, and the disability, AAC Devices have the potential play a significant role in the way students with special needs communicate. Not only do AAC devices provide a means for non-verbal individuals to communicate, it allows those around them to better understand their individual personality as well. However, not only do traditional AAC devices look like they are also specifically designed for a special needs person, thus, further perpetuating a negative, or “out of place” connotation; these devices are significantly bulky, limited in its functionality, and, more importantly, they are ridiculously expensive. An AAC device like the one demonstrated in the following video could cost a family up to $9,000 if insurance does not cover any or part of it. On the other hand, applications using the same concept can be applied to more recent technological innovations that range between $400 to $600 and are quite frankly far more versatile, efficient, and engaging. Equally important is the fact that because devices like the Apple i-touch and the i-pad are already mainstream, accessibility that the general public will have to it in terms of cost is becoming a reality. Once you have an i-touch or i-pad, many many applications can be used using the same device for around $15 an application; whereas traditional AAC devices limited its uses to one or two functions that were extremely restricting and un-engaging. Another example of how and why newer, more innovative technology is better in terms of using it as an AAC device is the simple fact that visual, audio, and video modifications can be easily made on the spot. Because in special education state standards commonly need to be modified or adapted when related to the special needs student, and in the past, the only way to do so meant to use laminators, printers, and other, more time consuming tools. With an i-pad, many of these things can be done by simply using the internet and the devices features.

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Ethics and the Future of Traditional AAC Devices
Although traditional AAC devices have done a great deal in terms of helping those who cannot verbally communicate, the simple fact is that these devices are outdated, very limiting, and very expensive. It does not make any sense for a family who has a special needs child that requires an AAC type device, to purchase anything other than say an i-pad. Why? If for any reason, an- i-pad offers an infinite amount of possibilities whereas a traditional AAC device only offers one or two functions. However, the reality is that in recent years, AAC has developed into a mainstream. There are now conferences on AAC, special interest groups, journals, and trade shows. Legislation has been adapted and established to ensure that individuals have access to AAC technology and related services. These services can be seen in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004) and the Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act. So what now? I believe that in the near future more and more devices like the Apple i-pad will be introduced into mainstream and special education classes because as the technology gets older and prices begin to lower, these versatile devices will begin to replace many of the traditional technological tools that are either too time consuming, too bulky, or simply inefficient.

Applications for Special Education Students that Pertain to Communication:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/artikpix-full/id356720379?mt=8

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/proloquo2go/id308368164?mt=8

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tapspeak-button/id359998293?mt=8