Navigating Evidence-Based AAC Practice in a Social Media World
It’s no secret that social media can be a goldmine of creative therapy ideas, especially when it comes to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). We scroll through posts, save clever hacks, and feel inspired to try new things. But how do we ensure our interventions are firmly rooted in evidence-based practice (EBP) while still enjoying the benefits of online inspiration? Let’s dive in.
A Lesson Learned (and Laughed Over)
When I first began working with more complex communicators, I often felt at a loss for the “right” AAC strategies. I’d see what others were doing—be it on social media or from a clinician down the hall—and copy them. Sometimes, that worked beautifully, leading to fun, engaging sessions. Other times, not so much. I’d walk away thinking, “Well, that definitely didn’t go according to plan.” It was a lesson that, while outside inspiration can be valuable, staying grounded in evidence-based practice is what truly elevates our clinical work.
What Does “Evidence-Based” Really Mean?
Evidence-based practice is not about rigidly following one approach. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), EBP involves integrating:
Best available research (from reputable sources such as ASHA journals and the ASHA Practice Portal).
Clinical expertise (our accumulated knowledge and skills).
Client preferences and values (the individual needs of the communicator and their family).
In other words, we take research-based knowledge, combine it with our professional judgment, and tailor everything to the unique individual. That’s what keeps our work both ethical and effective.
Aided Language Stimulation: Tried-and-True (and Fun!)
One core evidence-based strategy worth highlighting is aided language stimulation. Research shows that consistently modeling symbols on a communication device while speaking supports language learning for AAC users across different communicative intents. Here’s how we can put it into practice:
Model, Model, Model: Whenever we say a word aloud (e.g., “go,” “want,” “turn”), we simultaneously select or point to it on the AAC system.
Vary the Purpose: We demonstrate how the same core words can be used to request (“go car”), comment (“go fast”), protest (“no go”), or direct others (“go there”). This shows learners that language is flexible, fun, and functional.
Adapt to Interests: If our communicators love trains or bubbles, we center our modeling around those interests to keep them engaged.
Balancing Inspiration with Confirmation
It’s absolutely okay—awesome, even—to look to social media for fresh ideas. But before we jump headfirst into the latest AAC challenge or “fun therapy hack,” we can ask ourselves:
Is there a research basis for this? A quick look at ASHA’s resources or a peer-reviewed article can confirm whether an approach aligns with current best practices.
Does this fit my client’s goals, strengths, and preferences? Even if a strategy is popular, it might not be the right fit for every communicator.
Have I considered how to measure success? Evidence-based practice also means knowing how we’ll evaluate outcomes (e.g., data collection, progress monitoring, family feedback).
Bringing It All Together
By combining our professional expertise with reputable research and our clients’ unique needs, we build therapy sessions that are both fun and effective. So let’s keep following those creative #AAC hashtags and brainstorming with colleagues—just remember to double-check our ideas against solid research and best practices.
Ready to level up your AAC game?
Explore the AAC Agreements for Evidence-Based Practice.
Visit the ASHA Practice Portal for the latest on AAC guidelines.
Connect with other SLPs, but ask questions about the evidence behind their suggestions.
Follow me on social media @aac_adventure for more ideas
Social media may be a fantastic starting point, but evidence-based practice is what keeps us confidently on track, ensuring every communicator has the best possible support. Let’s keep learning—and keep having fun along the way!
