Presentation covering speech tablets for special education students.

1. Assistive
Technology in
Special Education
Speech Tablets (AAC devices)
By: Amy Dreher, Jack Clark, and Keely Baldridge

2. What is it?
Speech Tablets
The speech tablet is designed
for augmentative and
alternative communication for
individuals that have been
diagnosed with a disability that
affects communication.

3. How Does it Work?
> The tablet works by showing words in a grid view
and a picture that goes with each word.
> The student can select the picture or word that
communicates what they need or want to say.
> The tablet or app will play that word the student
selected.

5. How Effective Is It?
> Research claims that use of these devices can
improve speech and vocabulary and can even help
students who are non-verbal begin to talk.
> Students are more likely to pay attention when
information is given through technological
means.
> Associated with stronger language growth in pre-
school students.

6. When and How often will it be used?
> Research shows that students use the tablet in the
classroom most of the day
> Anytime verbal communication is necessary the
tablet is a vital resource. Whether it’s
communicating the students’ lunch choice,
response to a discussion question, or signalling
they have the answer to a math question, the tablet
is the means of communication for the student

7. What other services are needed for the tablet to be
used effectively?
> The tablet will need a charger in order to be fully
functioning for the day
> Specific APP choices need to downloaded and
updated for the student to be able to access
specific communication information

8. Is the tablet portable?
> The tablet is small and
light, making it easy to
transport wherever the
student goes.

9. What will the general education teacher need to
know in order to help the student utilize the tablet?
> A great feature of speech tablets is how user-
friendly they are. Students are able to use the device
on their own to communicate with others. This makes
it easy on general education teachers because this
isn’t a very complex device, even young students
should be able to operate the tablet on their own. It
would be a good idea to know how the tablet works in
case of an emergency but this would not require
extensive training and depends on the exact
device/app.

11. Resources
> AAC and Technology - https://schools.ahrcnyc.org/aac/
> Tips for Using AAC devices https://www.autismspeaks.org/tips-
using-assistive-technology-devices
> Support for AAC Use in Pre-School
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017351/
> Integrating AAC into the Classroom
https://leader.pubs.asha.org/doi/full/10.1044/leader.FTR2.09172004.6
> DIY Device Strap
https://blog.mycoughdrop.com/diy-device-strap-from-an-aac-mom-2/