,EDS4802
ASSIGNMENT 4
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
FOR MORE ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSISTANCE
WHATSAPP : 0662594903
, QUESTION 1:
EXPLANATION OF KEY CONCEPTS
1.1 Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to methods, strategies, systems
and technologies that support people who have difficulty communicating through
conventional speech or writing. Augmentative communication supplements an individual's
existing speech, while alternative communication provides another means of
communication when speech is absent or insufficient. AAC may include gestures, facial
expressions, manual signs, communication boards, picture symbols, writing, electronic
devices and speech-generating technology (ASHA, 2024).
AAC is important because communication is closely connected to participation, learning,
independence and the exercise of human rights. A learner who cannot communicate
effectively through speech should not automatically be assumed to have limited intellectual
ability. Appropriate AAC can enable learners to express needs, answer questions,
participate in classroom discussions and demonstrate their knowledge. AAC therefore
reduces communication barriers and promotes inclusion rather than expecting the learner
to adapt to a communication system designed mainly for people without disabilities (Dada,
2021).
AAC should be selected according to the individual's communication needs, abilities,
environment and preferences. Its use is consistent with the human rights approach to
disability because it creates conditions in which persons with disabilities can exercise
autonomy and participate on an equal basis with others (United Nations, 2006).
1.2 Human Rights Model of Disability
The Human Rights Model of Disability views persons with disabilities as rights-holders
rather than recipients of charity, medical treatment or welfare. It recognises disability as part
of human diversity and places duties on governments, institutions and society to remove
barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from enjoying their rights on an equal basis
with others (United Nations, 2017).
ASSIGNMENT 4
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
FOR MORE ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSISTANCE
WHATSAPP : 0662594903
, QUESTION 1:
EXPLANATION OF KEY CONCEPTS
1.1 Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to methods, strategies, systems
and technologies that support people who have difficulty communicating through
conventional speech or writing. Augmentative communication supplements an individual's
existing speech, while alternative communication provides another means of
communication when speech is absent or insufficient. AAC may include gestures, facial
expressions, manual signs, communication boards, picture symbols, writing, electronic
devices and speech-generating technology (ASHA, 2024).
AAC is important because communication is closely connected to participation, learning,
independence and the exercise of human rights. A learner who cannot communicate
effectively through speech should not automatically be assumed to have limited intellectual
ability. Appropriate AAC can enable learners to express needs, answer questions,
participate in classroom discussions and demonstrate their knowledge. AAC therefore
reduces communication barriers and promotes inclusion rather than expecting the learner
to adapt to a communication system designed mainly for people without disabilities (Dada,
2021).
AAC should be selected according to the individual's communication needs, abilities,
environment and preferences. Its use is consistent with the human rights approach to
disability because it creates conditions in which persons with disabilities can exercise
autonomy and participate on an equal basis with others (United Nations, 2006).
1.2 Human Rights Model of Disability
The Human Rights Model of Disability views persons with disabilities as rights-holders
rather than recipients of charity, medical treatment or welfare. It recognises disability as part
of human diversity and places duties on governments, institutions and society to remove
barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from enjoying their rights on an equal basis
with others (United Nations, 2017).
