Augmentative communication, assistive technology and adaptive equipment — formative SAQs

SAQ 1 (10 marks)

A 4-year-old autistic child has fewer than 10 spontaneous words and frequent meltdowns at preschool. Parents fear a tablet device will stop speech. [3]

1. Define AAC and complex communication needs. (2) [13]
2. Outline how you will counsel regarding AAC and speech. (3) [1] [2] [3]
3. List the key steps of a participation-focused AAC plan. (5) [13] [14]

Model answer — SAQ 1

1. AAC augments or replaces spoken speech (unaided and aided methods). CCN means speech alone does not meet communication needs across daily contexts. [13]

2. Multi-modal support: AAC does not require stopping speech attempts. Early AAC supports participation now. PECS has evidence for requesting; speech gains are variable. Naturalistic SGD approaches are supported in CCN/autistic preschool populations. [1] [2] [3]

3. Goals with family/school → multidisciplinary assessment (SLP/OT/PT) → feature-match language and access → trial low- and high-tech → train partners → review participation and frustration behaviour; keep low-tech backup. [13] [14]

SAQ 2 (10 marks)

A school-aged child with severe cerebral palsy “failed” a communication device trial while poorly seated. The family also asks about powered mobility. [9] [11]

1. Explain why seating/access must be reassessed before abandoning AAC. (3) [11] [14]
2. Outline powered mobility counselling points for a young child with severe motor impairment. (3) [9]
3. State how you will measure success of assistive technology. (4) [13]

Model answer — SAQ 2

1. Posture and access determine whether the child can select symbols. Adaptive seating can improve postural control and activity performance. Failed trials in poor seating are often access failures, not cognitive impossibility. [11] [14]

2. Powered mobility can relate to developmental change and exploration, not only adolescent transport. Offer therapy-led trial discussion; do not veto solely by young age; integrate with participation goals. [9]

3. Success = effective requesting/refusing/commenting, reduced frustration, school and home use, partner competence, and broader activity/participation — not brand prestige or a single clinic demo. [13]