,EDS4802 ASSIGNMENT 4
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
QUESTION 1: EXPLANATION OF KEY CONCEPTS
1.1 Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to different methods and
tools that help people communicate when speech is difficult, limited or not possible.
AAC can include gestures, facial expressions, sign language, pictures, communication
boards, symbols, writing and electronic speech-generating devices (ASHA, 2025). AAC is
described as augmentative when it supports or adds to a person's existing speech, while
it is alternative when it is used instead of speech.
AAC is important for learners with disabilities because communication is necessary for
learning, social interaction and participation in school. For example, a learner who
cannot communicate effectively through speech may use a tablet with a speech-
generating application to answer questions, communicate with teachers and interact
with other learners. AAC therefore supports the learner's right to participate rather than
expecting the learner to communicate only through conventional speech (ASHA, 2025).
AAC also supports an inclusive education system because it allows learners with
different communication abilities to express their needs, opinions, knowledge and
feelings. This is consistent with Universal Design for Learning, which encourages schools
to provide different ways for learners to communicate and demonstrate what they know
(CAST, 2024).
1.2 Human Rights Model of Disability
, The Human Rights Model of Disability views persons with disabilities as rights holders
who have the same human rights and dignity as everyone else. Instead of seeing
disability mainly as a medical problem located within the individual, this model
recognises that social, environmental and attitudinal barriers can restrict participation.
The United Nations explains that the human rights model recognises disability as a social
construct and rejects the idea that an impairment should be used as a reason to deny or
restrict human rights (OHCHR, 2022).
The model is based on principles such as dignity, equality, autonomy, participation and
non-discrimination. It places responsibility on governments, institutions and society to
remove barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating fully. For
example, if a wheelchair user cannot enter a public building because there is only a
staircase, the problem is not simply the person's impairment. The inaccessible building is
also creating the barrier.
This model is important in South Africa because it supports the country's commitment to
equality and inclusion. The White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
emphasises removing barriers in areas such as the built environment, transport,
communication and access to services (Department of Social Development, 2015).
1.3 Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists are health professionals who assist people to participate in
everyday activities that are important to them. These activities can include self-care,
education, employment, leisure, social participation and community activities. The
World Federation of Occupational Therapists explains that occupational therapy
promotes health and wellbeing by supporting participation in meaningful occupations
(WFOT, 2025).
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
QUESTION 1: EXPLANATION OF KEY CONCEPTS
1.1 Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to different methods and
tools that help people communicate when speech is difficult, limited or not possible.
AAC can include gestures, facial expressions, sign language, pictures, communication
boards, symbols, writing and electronic speech-generating devices (ASHA, 2025). AAC is
described as augmentative when it supports or adds to a person's existing speech, while
it is alternative when it is used instead of speech.
AAC is important for learners with disabilities because communication is necessary for
learning, social interaction and participation in school. For example, a learner who
cannot communicate effectively through speech may use a tablet with a speech-
generating application to answer questions, communicate with teachers and interact
with other learners. AAC therefore supports the learner's right to participate rather than
expecting the learner to communicate only through conventional speech (ASHA, 2025).
AAC also supports an inclusive education system because it allows learners with
different communication abilities to express their needs, opinions, knowledge and
feelings. This is consistent with Universal Design for Learning, which encourages schools
to provide different ways for learners to communicate and demonstrate what they know
(CAST, 2024).
1.2 Human Rights Model of Disability
, The Human Rights Model of Disability views persons with disabilities as rights holders
who have the same human rights and dignity as everyone else. Instead of seeing
disability mainly as a medical problem located within the individual, this model
recognises that social, environmental and attitudinal barriers can restrict participation.
The United Nations explains that the human rights model recognises disability as a social
construct and rejects the idea that an impairment should be used as a reason to deny or
restrict human rights (OHCHR, 2022).
The model is based on principles such as dignity, equality, autonomy, participation and
non-discrimination. It places responsibility on governments, institutions and society to
remove barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating fully. For
example, if a wheelchair user cannot enter a public building because there is only a
staircase, the problem is not simply the person's impairment. The inaccessible building is
also creating the barrier.
This model is important in South Africa because it supports the country's commitment to
equality and inclusion. The White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
emphasises removing barriers in areas such as the built environment, transport,
communication and access to services (Department of Social Development, 2015).
1.3 Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists are health professionals who assist people to participate in
everyday activities that are important to them. These activities can include self-care,
education, employment, leisure, social participation and community activities. The
World Federation of Occupational Therapists explains that occupational therapy
promotes health and wellbeing by supporting participation in meaningful occupations
(WFOT, 2025).
