Breaking down the AAC evaluation process for beginners

Jumping into the world of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) evaluations can feel overwhelming for new speech-language pathologists (SLPs), but it doesn’t have to be. The key is taking a step-by-step approach, focusing on what really matters—matching the right features to the communicator’s needs. Research backs a feature-matching process, meaning we don’t just pick a device, we assess communication skills, motor and cognitive abilities, and environmental factors to find the best fit (Beukelman & Light, 2020).

First things first—background information. Before diving into assessments, gather insights from caregivers, teachers, and other professionals. What does the person’s current communication look like? Where do they struggle? Where do they thrive? Research stresses that the individual should always be part of the process—when they’re involved in decision-making, they’re more likely to engage with AAC successfully (Light & McNaughton, 2019).

Next comes the hands-on assessment. We’re looking at motor skills (can they touch a screen? Use a switch?), cognition, receptive and expressive language, and literacy skills. The Participation Model helps guide this process by identifying barriers and figuring out how to work around them (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). It’s not just about picking a device—it’s about making sure the system supports real, meaningful interactions.

Now, the fun part—trying different AAC systems. An extended trial period is crucial so the individual can use AAC in real-life situations. Research shows that AAC is never a one-and-done decision; it needs to evolve with the communicator’s skills and needs (Iacono et al., 2022). During trials, collect data to see what’s working and what’s not—this helps with funding and justifying the final recommendation.

Finally, it all comes together in the report. A solid AAC evaluation report outlines the assessment results, recommended features, and an implementation plan. This is more than just paperwork—it helps secure funding and gives caregivers and teams a roadmap for supporting communication. The biggest takeaway? AAC selection isn’t static. It’s an ongoing process that requires training, adjustments, and support. By following research-backed strategies and keeping the individual at the center, SLPs can set communicators up for success.