The Use of Alternative And Augmentative Communication (AAC) In Classroom Settings: A Case Study

摘要

The lack of Malaysian Speech-Language Therapist (SLT) in school settings created higher demand among the students who needs Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) intervention for communication. This paper provides a collaboration of SLT, teacher and parent to utilize the use of student's AAC at classroom settings. The aims was to examine the type of AAC usage and to determine teacher's and parent's perception after implemented of the AAC. Method: This was a single case study of the student who use AAC in daily special needs intervention. A data collection of student's communication profile was collected. The Picture Communication System (PCS) and applications of Voice Output Communication Aid (VOCA) were implemented. Result: The result showed that the communication of students has improvement. A likert-scale data of parent's perception showed that for 9 items-related, parent's mostly agreed that their children performed and participates well in her classroom activity. A set of questionnaire was given to the student's classroom teacher. Teacher reported that they need knowledge to use AAC and they agreed that collaboration with SLT is important in conduct assessments and match a specific AAC to the student. Conclusion: This study revealed that experts and professionals collaboration is essential in order to create effectiveness of AAC usage in the classroom settings.