Course Level: Introductory

Course Runtime: 1 hour.

Course Format: e-learning – text and video.

This course is a video recording of a conference talk from Smartbox’s 24 Hours of AAC virtual conference held on 6–7 May 2026.

Description

This conference talk explores the theme of AAC being everywhere through the lens of AAC development in Australia over the last 20 years. Speech Pathologist Lizzie Lee reflects on how AAC tools, technology, accessibility, and community awareness have evolved, and the impact these changes have had on people who use AAC.

The session considers the important role of communication partners, the value of lived experience, and the opportunities that exist to support communication beyond the clinic. Through practical examples from schools, community settings, and everyday life, Lizzie shares strategies for increasing communication opportunities and supporting AAC users to communicate in the way that works best for them.

This talk is suitable for anyone wanting to learn more about AAC. This includes professionals new to the field such as Speech and Language professionals, Educators and Occupational Therapists. It is also suitable for families and those supporting an individual on their AAC journey.

Course outline 

This session covers:

• AAC over the last 20 years: how technology, access, and communication supports have changed.
• The growth of AAC in community and public spaces.
• Accessibility, AAC awareness, and the role of lived experience.
• Characteristics of effective communication partners.
• Strategies to support AAC use in everyday environments.
• Creating opportunities for communication and connection in the community.

Content disclosure: This course may use examples predominantly from Smartbox Products, other products will be included in a limited format.

Learner outcomes 

By the end of this course, participants will be able to: 

• Identify at least three strategies that communication partners can do to support a person to communicate. 
• Identify at least three things that may assist a person to increase their communication in the community. 
• List at least three community places that might provide opportunities for interesting interactions. 

Completion requirements: You must complete all course content including reading all text and watching all video content. This course is assessed via a multiple-choice, five-question knowledge check at the end of the course. The pass score is 80%. You can take the knowledge check multiple times. 

Instructor bios

Elizabeth Lea | MSpPath CPSP Speech Pathologist.

Elizabeth Lea is a speech pathologist and has worked in schools, disability support services and in private practice. She established "The Communication Toolbox" 15 years ago to support children and adults to learn about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Elizabeth enjoys creating excitement about communication and she takes having fun with AAC very seriously.

Disclosures 

Financial disclosure: None. 

Non-financial disclosure: None.