If you work in education, community care, speech pathology, or counselling, this professional development program is ideal for you. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a method that replaces or supplements speech when there are language difficulties. It positively influences social skills, school performance, self-worth, and quality of life.
The Certificate of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) equips professionals with the skills to support individuals with communication needs.
In this augmentative and alternative communication course, you will learn about communication disorders, AAC strategies, and family engagement to enhance the quality of life for those with speech and language challenges. You will also learn to assess communication capacity and explore strategies for supporting individuals with speech and language disorders.
You will explore AAC strategies, best practices in referrals and documentation, and cultural factors in communication plans. You will also learn to implement AAC tools, from low-tech devices to advanced high-tech solutions. Additionally, you will study nonverbal techniques and strategies to create a communication-friendly home environment.
On completion of this course, you will feel confident to support individuals with limited oral speech skills using AAC for their participation and communication needs.
Course Structure
Certificate of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Unit 1 – Communication Needs
- Advantages of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- Communication capacity and needs
- Capacity checklist
- Communication disorders
- Communication disability in Australia
- Speech disorders
- Language disorders
- Developmental language disorders
- Impact of communication disorders
- Strategies for support and accommodation
- Professional and economic outcomes
- Psychological effects
- Family dynamics
- Communication rights
Unit 2 – Developing and Documenting Communication Strategies
- Addressing specific communication needs
- Culture and AAC
- Best practices in documentation
- Referral processes
- Best practices for referrals
- Training and education
Unit 3 – Implementing AAC Strategies
- Initial assessments
- Patient history and preferences
- Introduction to AAC devices
- Low-tech devices
- Photos
- Picture boards and communication books
- Sign language and gestures
- High-tech tools and strategies
- Speech-generating devices
- Eye-tracking and head-tracking devices
- Dynamic display devices
- Implementing AAC strategies
Unit 4 – Enhancing Communication Through AAC
- Natural and non-verbal communication
- Effective training strategies
- Roleplaying
- Mirroring exercises
- Modelling AAC
- Video modelling
- Real-time feedback
- Consistency and repetition
- Contextual adaptation
- Sensory integration
- Biometric feedback
- Beyond mirroring
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmentative Reality (AR)
- Sequential Motion training
- Neurofeedback training
- Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
- Peer-led group activities
Unit 5 – Family Engagement
- Creating a communication-friendly home
- Understanding needs
- Strategic placement
- Visual supports
- Modifying the environment
- Providing a supportive atmosphere
- Communication stations
- Daily communication practices
- AAC in social settings
- Collaborative goal setting
- Tracking and adjustment
- Engaging siblings and extended family
- Family activities
- Managing challenges
- Celebrating successes
- Resources and support groups
- Support networks
Study Hours
Estimated duration 30 Hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% Online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
I really enjoyed this course. The information was relevant and easy to access.
E. Cahill, Mareeba, QLD | Augmentative and Alternative Communication Strategies
It goes through all overall information regarding AAC so that I feel confident to apply AAC strategies to my clients
S. Kim, Kyunggido, South Korea | Augmentative and Alternative Communications Strategies
It was easily laid out and able to follow. Great experience
K. Christiansen, Medicine Hat Alberta Canada | Augmentative and Alternative Communication Strategies
My experience was great it was easy to access, and the information was good. I was glad I got a hard copy as well because it was good to refer back to.
Tania | Bendigo, VIC | Augmentative and Alternative Communication Strategies
About Us
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Enrol Now
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development For:
- Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
- Special Education Teachers
- Occupational Therapists (OTs)
- Educational or School Psychologists
- Social Workers
- Caregivers and Support Workers
- Medical Professionals (Doctors, Nurses)
- Counsellors and Psychologists
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