The readymade printed communication board is designed for speedy and efficient alternative and augmented communication (AAC) for literate users. It is an easy to use, simple to learn, affordable and portable solution.
This board can be just one component of a complete AAC system that may include a high tech communication aid such as a tablet, computer and/or eye gaze system. AlphaCore is a communication system made up of the most commonly used words in the English language (core vocabulary). Using core vocabulary can be much faster than spelling out words letter by letter. Words are color coded and arranged in alphabetical order, making them easy to find. AlphaCore was developed by Amy Romà¡n, MS, CCC-SLP. AlphaCore Xtreme is for people who would benefit from a core vocabulary system for either for physical or visual reasons. This board is designed for people who are using a hand held or head mounted laser pointer.
Product Features AlphaCore Extreme (Large) is 18 x 24 inches. (aprx. 45 X 61 cm), unmounted poster. Also available mounted onto stiff, durable, lightweight plastic PVC board.
195 cells on the communication board Printed on heavy non-reflective matte bond. Comes with an instruction booklet
A readymade communication board like this one is used:
- As a backup when a high tech device needs to be repaired or just rebooted or recharged - the low tech boards are always ready.
- To augment speech for those with some functional speech. This board can be an invaluable aid when fatigue, the environment or an unfamiliar communication partner may limit how much speech is understood. Because of location situation, rain, snow, bright outdoors, in the car or on a plane all these situations and others can frustrate even the most advanced of high tech solutions.
Other examples:
- While in the shower, or using the bathroom
- Riding in the car
- On the beach
- Making a quick request in the middle of the night
- Needing to communicate while temporarily in the hospital
At certain stages of progressive disabilities. Many SLP's have told us that communication with these boards is often used a lot at the beginning stage of a progressive disability as a way to supplement and augment speech. They are invaluable stepping stones as someone gets used to using AAC. But often at the advanced stages of a disability when personal energy is limited, the user may return to a low tech solution. A communication partner using a low tech communication board can help take over some of the work load of communication.
