Thus, for some students, an alternative form of communication is the best choice for them and will help them to be more functional participants in their environment. Augmentation and Alternative Communication Devices (AAC) often used in speech therapy sessions to create the best functional speech effect for students. These devices range from low tech to high tech. A low-tech option may be an image or symbol system known as an Image Exchange Communication System (PECS). This system can be used to express wishes / needs or as a programmer for children with transition difficulties. High tech options used in our space are GoTalk20+ and Grid 2– Open Alternative Enhancement Communication Environment.

GoTalk20+ is a powerful, portable, easy to use and very durable speech output device. It is light and has a capacity of 100 messages. One message / word for each of the 20 message keys available for each of the 5 levels. In addition, there are 5 buttons for key messages that remain the same even when the level changes.

GRID is one of the most complete Alternative and Augmented Communication software. Its potential as a tool for alternative communication as well as therapeutic / educational process is limited only by the time devoted to the creation of activities and grids of use and communication boards. The environment is open allowing the therapist / trainer to fully adapt the environment to the user.

Features:

• word prediction from embedded dictionary
• possibility of dictionary enrichment
• auto-click (with timeout) on the keyboard keys
• auto-click (with timeout) for mouse functions
• with phrase and macro functions
• Examples of multifaceted software (see below) covering most needs (in collaboration with IDEASIS and the software manufacturer)
• possibility of creating multiplexes or customizing multiplexes
• fully supports the Greek language (in collaboration with IDEASIS and the software manufacturer)
• has the ability to work with voice synthesis software to pronounce the contents of the grids and,
• comes with a built-in voice composition system for pronunciation for two voices in Greek: 1 male and 1 female, so that the environment is complete (at no extra cost for the purchase of voice in Greek).

For people without disabilities, technology makes things easier.
For people with disabilities, technology makes things possible.
Radabaugh, 1988