AAC Certificate Course Schedule

2026

Stockton University
AAC Certificate Program

Module Learning Objectives
2026

MODULE 1 – Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Define augmentative and alternative communication and describe its scope across low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech systems
  • Explain the historical development of AAC and identify current and emerging trends in AAC technology and service delivery
  • Describe the Communication Bill of Rights and its relevance to equitable communication access
  • Identify major legislation impacting AAC access and services, including IDEA and related educational mandates
  • Describe major funding sources for AAC devices and services and identify strategies for navigating funding processes
  • Demonstrate foundational advocacy skills related to AAC access, supports, and services
  • Describe the roles and responsibilities of interdisciplinary team members involved in AAC evaluation, implementation, and ongoing support

MODULE 2 – AAC Evaluation for Systems and Supports

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Describe the major steps in a comprehensive AAC evaluation process across the lifespan
  • Compare traditional system feature matching with specific language system-first decision-making models
  • Apply the SETT and ReSETT frameworks to AAC assessment and recommendation processes
  • Analyze cognitive, linguistic, sensory, motor, and environmental factors that influence AAC recommendations
  • Develop AAC evaluation reports using structured templates and case-based data
  • Differentiate medical and educational AAC report writing formats and purposes
  • Evaluate complex communication needs using case-based, multimodal, and lifespan-oriented assessment practices

MODULE 3 – AAC Implementation, Planning, and Ethical Practice Across Environments

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Develop AAC implementation plans and plan of care documents that support communication across environments
  • Write measurable AAC goals for IEPs and clinical plans that reflect functional communication priorities
  • Differentiate service delivery models, including consultation and direct intervention, as they relate to AAC supports
  • Develop strategies to train and support communication partners, including families, educators, related service providers, and peers
  • Identify methods for building communication allyship and strengthening carryover of AAC use across settings
  • Align AAC systems and supports with curriculum goals, classroom participation, and functional communication outcomes
  • Apply ethical principles to AAC assessment, implementation, service delivery, and communication access decisions

MODULE 4 – Alternative Access Systems for AAC Devices

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Differentiate between direct and indirect selection methods for AAC access
  • Evaluate motor, sensory, perceptual, and visual factors related to AAC access needs
  • Identify features of display layout that support successful access, including icon number, contrast, borders, and grid design
  • Implement single-step and two-step scanning strategies using switches and other alternative access tools
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to determine appropriate access solutions for individuals with complex needs
  • Describe the role of seating, positioning, vision, and motor planning in AAC access evaluation
  • Analyze and apply advanced access options, including eye gaze and emerging brain-based interface technologies

MODULE 5 – Language Systems, Vocabulary, Competency Domains, and Literacy

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

• Compare AAC language systems and organizational approaches, including considerations for selecting and trialing systems
  • Identify factors involved in obtaining and evaluating AAC trials for individuals with complex communication needs
  • Apply principles of vocabulary acquisition to AAC intervention, including core vocabulary, fringe vocabulary, and language development across profiles
  • Describe the relevance of Natural Language Acquisition and gestalt language considerations within AAC intervention and programming
  • Demonstrate foundational knowledge of AAC programming and customization across platforms
  • Identify and describe AAC competency domains relevant to assessment, implementation, partner support, and ongoing clinical decision-making
  • Integrate AAC strategies into emergent and conventional literacy instruction for individuals with complex communication needs

FINAL ASSESSMENT

At the completion of the AAC Certificate Program, participants will demonstrate integrated knowledge of AAC foundations, evaluation, implementation, access, language systems, competency domains, ethics, and literacy through a comprehensive final examination.