Reflection #6 - Communication Supports

Student Name Professor Name Course Date Supporting Katie’s Communication Needs: A Multimodal Approach Combining gestural communication with symbol-based AAC systems is one effective strategy. While Katie already communicates through gestures, low-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools such as picture boards can further help her express her needs and wants. These visual symbols help communicate clearly and eliminate misunderstandings and frustration (Pierangelo slide 5). Per Pierangelo’s AAC framework, combined with gestures with aided communication can result in meaningful interactions. Moreover, supporting non-speaking students like Katie requires modeling and providing adequate wait time. Research into AAC extends the focus to modeling AAC use without placing immediate expectations on students to naturally demonstrate and learn how to use their communication tools (Pierangelo slide 8). Educators and caregivers can use Katie to model AAC devices or symbol boa...