Discover how to effectively use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for authentic communication. This session will highlight the diverse functions of communication and provide practical strategies for achieving authentic interactions with clients. Participants will explore the various purposes of communication beyond mere requests, learn how the environment and communication partners play crucial roles, and discover techniques to create meaningful communication opportunities. The class includes hands-on exercises with AAC tools, ensuring participants leave with the skills needed to support their clients in achieving genuine communication. Ideal for speech-language pathologists, educators, caregivers, and anyone interested in enhancing their understanding and implementation of AAC systems, this seminar will equip attendees with actionable strategies to foster authentic communication in their practice. We look forward to seeing you there and helping you make a significant impact in your clients' lives!

Learner Outcomes: 

Participants will be able to:

• Define authentic communication.
• Identify functions of communication.
• Describe communication opportunities.
• Analyze an AAC user’s environment and identify how to create communication opportunities.

Agenda:

Duration in minutes - Topic covered

10 minutes - Introduction & What is authentic communication?

30 minutes - Functions of Communication

20 minutes - Environments

45 minutes - Communication partners and their roles

40 minutes - Communication opportunities

5 minutes - Summary and Questions

Please note the following details regarding this course:

• You must register for this course using your own AACLJ account.
• All attendees will have the opportunity to download a Certificate of Attendance/Completion, depending on the class.
• ASHA CEU and certificate eligibility require complete live attendance.
• Certificates will be available to participants with verified attendance within a 2-week processing period.

If this is an online training:

• Please check that your Zoom software is up to date prior to the course start time.
• Pop-up blockers can prevent the join button from working properly. Disable any pop-up blockers or allow an exception for AAC Learning Journey.
• Chrome, Firefox, or Edge are the recommended browsers.

Click here for instructor bio and disclosures

Session Dates:

• In-Person with Betsy Clifford in Kansas City, MO
  May 3, 2025 : 8:30 am - 11:00 am CDT