The CoughDrop app is loaded with powerful communication tools and amazing cloud extra features, but there is even more strength behind the program than usability and function. CoughDrop is built on solid research and best practices relating to augmentative communication.
It’s no secret that augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can greatly expand a person’s opportunities for communication. When a person cannot speak verbally, AAC can fill the gap. CoughDrop is glad to be part of that communication solution.
But CoughDrop is more than just a set of icons and voice options thrown together to make a device say words. CoughDrop’s functions are based on scholarly research, evidence-based practice, guidance from experienced AAC communicators, and the insight of dozens of speech and language specialists. CoughDrop’s robust language solutions have been built to fit the needs of AAC communicators and the requirements of speech professionals.
Following are several research-based articles highlighting needs in the world of AAC which are addressed by CoughDrop’s AAC solutions.
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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Guidelines for speech pathologists who support people with disabilities: This article is an in-depth guide to learning and using AAC. It accents necessities like switch functions, AAC access by a dedicated communication partner, person-centered communication, aided language input, color coding speech displays, use of core vocabulary, symbol or picture choices, and literacy. ALL of these concerns can be addressed and the needs of each topic clearly met by functions of the CoughDrop system.
http://www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/file/0011/302402/Augmentative_and_Alternative_Communication_Practice_Guide.pdf - This paper provides an overview of five review studies that analyzed 92 single-subject studies
on the effectiveness of major augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for
individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. This paper offers
recommendations useful for AAC decision-making points. CoughDrop is an effective AAC option which could be incorporated into similar therapies.
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1185374.pdf - “Everyone Deserves AAC”: Preliminary Study of the Experiences of Speaking Autistic Adults Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication. As a worldwide solution for Autistic individuals who need communication support, CoughDrop would be a valid solution as represented in this research.
https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/2021_PERSP-20-00220 -
Effectiveness of the Picture-centric System as a Functional Communication Intervention for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Practice-Based Research Synthesis: This research verifies the effectiveness of using a pictures-based system in improving functional communication for individuals with autism. The article establishes the benefits of high-tech picture-focused programs like CoughDrop in enhancing communication.
http://daddcec.org/portals/0/cec/autism_disabilities/research/publications/education_training_development_disabilities/2008v43_journals/etdd_200803v43n1p061-076_effectiveness_picture_exchange_communication_system_functional.pdf -
Core Vocabulary: Research-driven practices consistently show that a solid vocabulary is needed to build dynamic communication. It is well documented that core vocabulary gives communicators a broad reach in their language opportunities. CoughDrop’s multiple built-in core vocabulary board sets address this need and easy programming of fringe words, full phrases, or activity-specific language gives additional language versatility.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232041093_Core_Vocabulary_Determination_for_Toddlers
http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/the-baby-the-bathwater-and-core-vocabulary/ -
The Effect of Aided Language Stimulation on Vocabulary Acquisition in Children With Little or No Functional Speech: According to research, aided language stimulation (sometimes called modeling) is an important feature in any AAC communication plan. CoughDrop’s in-app modeling, supervisor, and org features were created specifically to meet the needs of AAC users and those who model with them.
http://ajslp.pubs.asha.org/article.aspx?articleid=1757603
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An Authentic Voice Through AAC for Students with Severe and Multiple Disabilities: There are many pieces required to fill a student’s communication needs. This article lays out an integrated model of communication for AAC users. Each of the suggestions for social, language, and linguistic skills can be met through CoughDrop features.
https://www.closingthegap.com/media/pdfs/2195.pdf -
Data Collection: Speech and language professionals understand the importance of solid data in tracking progress, setting goals, and encouraging growth. Data collection, logs, and reports are important features within CoughDrop that benefit not only AAC users but also those working with them.
http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/5-resources-for-aac-data-collection/
http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/5-things-to-consider-about-data-collection-in-aac/ -
Project Core: The CoughDrop app has a built-in speech board based on the findings of Project Core (find it here). Project core has done its own research on topics relating to core vocabulary and AAC implementation. You can find links to the research supporting their work at the website below.
http://www.project-core.com/annotated-bibliography/
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