November 24, 2012
My favorite Facebook quote this week….
November 24, 2012
Earlier this week I ran across a quote on a friend’s Facebook page plucked from the brilliant blog by Robin Parker and Carole Zangari: ‘PrAACtical AAC’: “Let me just say this: My guess is that more kids have been harmed by us underestimating their abilities than the reverse…So, if you’re worried about them not understanding, there are two things you can do: Increase the amount of vocabulary instruction and increase the amount of aided language input. Both will help boost the learner’s comprehension.” ~ Carole Zangari
What is ‘aided language input?‘ Check out Carole’s helpful screencast explanation:
The concept of aided input was first introduced to me at a DynaVox training for communication partner techniques. Within the training it was called PAI or ‘Partner Augmented Input.’
So what does ‘aided language input’ or ‘PAI’ mean for parents, therapists, teachers, and others interacting with a kiddo and their AAC device? It means the communication partner should also be touching the screen and the buttons–using the device to take a conversational turn, to model and teach language, and interact with the person who may not yet be using spoken words or may be unable to use spoken words. The AAC device can be the medium of exchange in which each partner takes a turn to express an idea, comment on a thought, or make a request.
Be bold and take a turn. You’ll be sharing thoughts and ideas–while unknowingly and easily staging opportunities for teaching language at the same.
~KVS
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11.
Mags & Gilly 