Intro & Overview of Core Word AAC Systems

Quick Overview

Jennifer Marden, a speech pathologist, discussed the importance of core words in communication and provided an overview of different core word AAC systems at the 2017 ASF Family Conference. Core words are the most frequently used words in conversation and writing, and core word AAC systems help individuals communicate using these words. The success of a core word system depends on the user’s comfort and buy-in. Factors such as personal preferences, ease of use, support available, cost, and community should be considered when choosing a system. Marden discussed several core word AAC systems, including Proloquo2Go, WordPower, Speak for Yourself, TouchChat, Lamp Words for Life, and Crescendo. She concluded by stating that core word AAC systems provide individuals with the freedom to express themselves and communicate effectively.

Jennifer Marden, a speech pathologist with 20 years of experience in AAC, presented on core word AAC systems at the 2017 ASF Family Conference. In her talk, she discussed the importance of core words in communication and provided an overview of different core word AAC systems available.

Core Words: The Foundation of Communication

Core words are the most frequently used words in conversation and writing. They are essential for effective communication. Core word AAC systems are designed to help individuals communicate using these core words.

Choosing the Right Core Word AAC System

The success of a core word system depends on the comfort and buy-in of the user and their team. There are different philosophies and options for core word systems. Factors such as personal preferences, ease of use, support available, cost, and community should be considered when choosing a core word system.

Proloquo2Go: A Core Word AAC System

Proloquo2Go, developed by AssistiveWare, is a core word AAC system available on iOS devices. It offers different grid sizes and progressive language options. Navigation in Proloquo2Go is done through folders and subfolders. The system provides grammar support, pre-programmed phrases, activity-specific pages, and a search function.

WordPower: Another Core Word AAC System

WordPower, developed by Nancy Inman, is another core word AAC system. It focuses on efficiency and is available on various platforms. Like Proloquo2Go, WordPower offers different grid sizes and language-level configurations. Navigation is similar, with folders and subfolders. It also allows for inflection of verbs, nouns, and adjectives.

Speak for Yourself: A Core Word AAC System for the Angelman Community

Speak for Yourself is a core word AAC system used by some in the Angelman community. It has its own unique features and benefits. It is available on iPad and iPhone, with one grid size and two vocabulary levels. Navigation is through multiple meaning icons. Speak for Yourself emphasizes motor planning and has a two-tap access to all words.

TouchChat: A Core Word AAC System with Sentence Starters

TouchChat is a core word system with sentence starters and pseudo-activity pages. It has a typing view with word prediction. Resources for TouchChat can be found on Saltillo and Smartbox websites.

Lamp Words for Life: A Core Word AAC System Inspired by Motor Planning

Lamp Words for Life is a core word system inspired by motor planning. It is a simplified version of Minspeak and can be used for any population. It is available on iPad and PRC dedicated devices, with one grid size and three vocabulary levels. Navigation is through multiple meaning icons. The Vocabulary Builder feature allows for customization of display.

Crescendo: The Built-in Vocabulary in Proloquo2Go

Crescendo is the built-in vocabulary in Proloquo2Go. It has three vocabulary levels and can be customized. Crescendo can be used from a young age, but expressive use may take time.

Considerations for AAC Systems

Apps need to be formatted for different screen sizes. Apple provides automatic scaling for different screen sizes. The future of iPad Mini is uncertain, but older versions can still run Proloquo2Go. Key guards can be used to separate buttons on AAC systems and can be purchased from vendors or custom-made.

Conclusion

Core word AAC systems provide individuals with the freedom to express themselves and communicate effectively. By understanding the different options available, individuals and their teams can choose the core word AAC system that best suits their needs.

Talk details

  • Title: Intro & Overview of Core Word AAC Systems
  • Author(s): Jennifer Marden
  • Author(s)’ affiliation: None
  • Publication date: 2017-08-14
  • Collection: 2017 ASF Family Conference