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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Evaluations:
Finding the Right Way to Communicate
An AAC evaluation looks at how a student with limited or unreliable speech can communicate most effectively. Cognitive Diagnostic Associates provides independent AAC evaluations as part of an Independent Educational Evaluation.
What is an AAC Evaluation
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes the tools and strategies that add to or replace speech, from picture boards and signs to speech-generating devices and communication apps. An AAC evaluation examines the student’s current communication, language, motor, vision, hearing, and learning needs to identify the systems and features that fit the student.
When to consider an independent AAC Evaluation
Families often request an independent AAC evaluation when a student cannot yet meet daily communication needs with speech alone, when the school has not considered AAC, when they disagree with the school’s AAC assessment, or when a current system is not working for the student.
What does an AAC Evaluation involve
Our evaluator reviews records, interviews parents and school staff, observes the student, and has the student try different AAC options and features. The written report describes how the student communicated with each option and includes recommendations for the IEP team to consider, such as system features and training for the student, family, and staff.
What an AAC Evaluation Gives the IEP Team
An AAC evaluation gives the IEP team a clear picture of how a student communicates now and what could help. It can:
1. Describe the student’s current communication across settings and partners.
2. Compare how the student performs with different AAC options.
3. Identify the system features that match the student’s language, motor, and sensory needs.
4. Recommend AAC systems, supports, and training for the team to consider.