The purpose of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to develop theoretical and practical knowledge and skills regarding augmentative and alternative communication interventions, including low tech, light tech and high tech systems. Augmentative and alternative communication interventions form a core component of speech and language therapy practice. Students will learn augmentative and alternative communication theory and systems, barriers and facilatators to AAC design and intervention and repairing communication breakdowns in nonverbal interactions. Students will have opportunities to experience technologically-based communication systems, communicating non verbally, design of AAC communication systems and the issues and impact communicating non verbally have on people with communication disabilities. The module will also focus on principles of communication access and inclusive communication as a human right. Students will also explore how to make general information accessible for individuals with speech, language and communication needs.

This module focuses on augmentative, alternative and accessible communication. Content includes: Augmentative and alternative communication theory and evidence; Static and dynamic technology-enhanced communication displays and systems; Designing communication systems for non-speaking individuals; Barriers and facilitators to communicating non verbally; Concepts of communication access for individuals with communication disability; Inclusive communication for all; Legislative frameworks underpinning communication access as a human right, and; Communication in the context of universal design principles.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Discriminate between a range of low tech and high tech augmentative and alternative communication interventions; Apply the principles of communication system design. Describe and contrast the principles of accessible and inclusive communication and communication access as a basic human right.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Demonstrate an appreciation of and value the need for augmentative, alternative and accessible technologies and interventions in speech and language therapy practice and for non-speaking individuals.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Design a communication display/system for a non-speaking individual. Design an accessible information tool for people with communicatiion impairment.

Traditional lectures, practical tutorials, experiential learning and service user-led workshops will form the basis of teaching and learning. Communication system demonstrations and case-based learning incorporated throughout the module will embed theory into practice and highlight person centred design principles and actions (graduate attributes: curious, responsible, agile, articulate). Up to date research will be incorporated into both traditional lectures and reflected in industry led demonstrations.