Major focus area

Speech Therapy -> Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Short description

Aided Language Input (ALI), also known as Aided Language Stimulation, is a method of modeling language using an AAC device while an AAC user is present. The purpose of it is to build communication skills using an AAC device through low-pressure, low-demand, positive interactions

Long description

Aided Language Input is a communication strategy that allows a communication partner to teach symbol meaning and model symbolic communication by pairing speech with graphic symbols or other forms of aided AAC. Aided Language Input (ALI) consists of (1) using aided AAC as we speak and (2) implementing intervention in the context of natural communication interactions. This type of modeling shows where graphic symbols are located and how they can be used to communicate various messages. The approach also involves observing the individual with complex communication needs, attributing meaning to their behaviors, and modeling symbolic alternatives using speech paired with the graphic symbols. Aided Language Input helps students: (1) understand that their behaviors carry meaning; (2) learn how they can use symbols to communicate more conventionally; and (3) develop language by showing how to expand messages by adding additional symbols. 

Sennot et al. (2016) found that ALI led to meaningful gains across language domains. Specifically, children took more communication turns, gained vocabulary knowledge, increased multi-symbol utterances, and demonstrated knowledge of early morphological markers. Brady et al (2013) found that ALI builds receptive understanding and expressive use of graphic symbols.