The Trend of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Within Schools
Fabiana Sonnino, Francesca Lattanzi, Silvia Nazzicone, Mara Catena, Marta Zargar
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a set of techniques, strategies, and technologies designed to improve the communication skills of people with verbal language difficulties. This practice facilitates social and school integration, especially for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism and cerebral palsy, not by replacing verbal language, but enhancing it, using symbols and images to support oral communication. In recent times, AAC has been implemented in schools to facilitate the learning and inclusion of pupils with neuro-diversity, creating school environments adapted to individual needs. AAC, through tools such as visual planners and communication charts, not only improves communication skills, but also supports children’s emotional, cognitive and social skills. The initiative was appreciated by both pupils with communication difficulties and their classmates, fostering an inclusive and interactive learning environment. Despite the benefits, challenges remain related to bias towards the use of these tools and the need for more training of school staff. Raising awareness and inclusion of all school players is essential to overcome these critical issues and promote full inclusion through the enhancement of differences.
Keywords
Autism, Neurodiversity, School, Communication, Education, Teachers, Learning, Educational Programs.
