Abstract: Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), introducing new opportunities — and new clinical responsibilities. This session examines how AI-driven features influence communication, authorship, and user autonomy for individuals who rely on AAC. Participants will explore practical examples of AI integration, differentiate between supportive and intrusive system behaviors, and develop frameworks for evaluating when technology enhances versus constrains authentic expression. Emphasis is placed on ethical implementation, preservation of user intent, and strategies that reinforce competence, identity, and communicative agency.
NOTE: While this course is not pre-certified with ASHA, it does meet the requirements, and Brenda Del Monte is an ASHA certified instructor. You will receive the course description, objectives and the CE Certificate required for ASHA if audited.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain how AI-enabled AAC features alter message generation, interaction patterns, and communication dynamics.
- Differentiate between AI functions that facilitate user expression and those that risk distorting or replacing user intent.
- Apply ethical and clinical decision-making principles to guide responsible use of AI within AAC systems
- Describe at least four best practices that address genAI issues such as equity and access for all students, privacy, bias, and ethical use.