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 common myths, misconceptions, and barriers that can impact successful AAC implementation. Through research, clinical experience, and real-life examples, the presenters challenge assumptions around AAC readiness, speech development, and device use, while highlighting the importance of presuming competence and providing access to communication from the outset.

The course also shares practical implementation strategies for supporting AAC users across all environments. Participants will explore the role of communication partners, the importance of modelling and meaningful communication opportunities, and approaches to fostering team collaboration and long-term AAC success.

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: 

• Research on Language and Cognition: Common misconceptions about AAC readiness and prerequisite skills. 
• Positive Effects of AAC Use: Exploring AAC's impact on language and communication development. 
• Learning to Use AAC: Understanding AAC as a language learning process. 
• Implementation Tips: Practical strategies to support AAC learning and use. 
• Presume Competency, Intellect and Potential: Promoting high expectations for AAC users. 
• Foster a Collaborative Approach: Supporting team buy-in and successful AAC implementation. 
• Tools and Resources: Enhancing team learning and confidence in AAC.

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 three barriers to or misconceptions about AAC introduction and how to overcome or avoid them. 
• List three best practice strategies in AAC implementation. 
• Explore two tools that can enhance team learning in AAC implementation. 

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

Daniéle Raneri | M.A. CCC-SLP

Daniéle is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and AAC Implementation Specialist at Smartbox US. Before joining Smartbox in 2020, she worked as an Assistive Technology Specialist with the ALS Association, supporting adults with ALS and their communication needs. Daniéle is passionate about helping individuals find their voice and empowering families, caregivers, and professionals to successfully implement AAC.

Lindsey Bothwell | M.A. CCC-SLP

Lindsey is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and AAC Implementation Specialist at Smartbox US. Prior to joining Smartbox, she spent nine years at Brookings Health System supporting children and adults with a range of communication needs. Lindsey is passionate about helping individuals access AAC and supporting families and teams throughout the implementation process.

Becky Fry | Clinical AAC Specialist (SLT) at Smartbox.

View full instructor bios.

Disclosures 

Financial disclosure: Daniéle Raneri, Lindsey Bothwell, and Becky Fry are employees of Smartbox Assistive Technology and receive a salary. 

Non-financial disclosure: Daniéle Raneri is a member of ASHA. Lindsey Bothwell is a member of ASHA and SIG-12. Becky Fry has no relevant non-financial disclosures.