Building Blocks to Autonomous Communication (BBtAC)

Building Blocks to Autonomous Communication (BBtAC)

Communication is a prerequisite for teaching and learning.  Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a tool or support that assists a learner with communicating a message.  Building Blocks to Autonomous Communication focuses on the what, why, and how of supporting learners with Complex Communication Needs (CCN). The overarching goal is that individuals with CCN leave their educational programming as autonomous communicators - in other words, that they can say what they want to say, when they want to say it, how they want to say it, and with whom they wish to communicate.

Each building block module (on EduPaths) is designed to focus on a targeted set of knowledge and skills. This knowledge and set of skills will enable educators to provide effective instruction to individuals with complex communication needs.

Autonomous Communication for All Learners - Getting Started

 

This course highlights how Building Blocks to Autonomous Communication was developed, the importance of joining with a team, and how to apply these skills with the complex communicators in your life.

Block #1 - Understanding the Fundamentals of AAC

 

This first block highlights the fundamental knowledge and beliefs necessary to truly support individuals with complex communication needs (CCN). 

Block #2 - Considering AT for Your Learner

 

This second block focuses on the components of a multidisciplinary team approach to the Assistive Technology [AT (including AAC)] assessment process.

Block #3 - Building Your Communication Partner Toolbox

 

This third block focuses on helpful skills and strategies communication partners can use to support individuals with complex communication needs.

Block #4 - Exploring Non-Electronic to Electronic AAC Tools

 

This fourth block focuses on the wide range of AAC tools that are available to individuals with complex communication needs.

Block #5 - Supporting AAC Users with Alternative Access

 

This fifth block focuses on strategies and alternative access methods for AAC users with complex physical bodies

Block #6 - Developing Literate AAC Users

 

This sixth block provides an overview of strategies that support daily, comprehensive literacy instruction for individuals with significant disabilities.

Block #7 - Communicating Outside of the Classroom

 

This seventh block focuses on strategies and skills for supporting AAC users beyond the classroom into their home and community environments.

Implementing Emergent Literacy Instruction

 

This course focuses on implementation strategies for comprehensive emergent literacy for students with significant disabilities.

Implementing Conventional Literacy Instruction

 

This course focuses on implementation strategies for comprehensive conventional literacy for students with significant disabilities.

Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD)

 

This course provides an overview of PODD communication books, which are robust AAC tools with a pragmatic approach. Note: the content in this course does not replace an official introductory PODD training.

BBtAC Implementation What’s Next?

 

This course is the culmination of the Building Blocks to Autonomous Communication pathway.  Participants will gain tools and strategies to move from learning into application and implementation of the content.

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