Concept of Development of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) System in the Russian Federation for the Period up to 2030

Abstract

The presented Concept of Development of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) System in the Russian Federation is based on the need to provide a wide range of conditions for the use of AAC by citizens, children and adults, who have speech difficulties or limitations in using speech. These conditions are determined by legislative, organizational, methodological, personnel, and material-technical levels. Achieving the goals, tasks, and implementing the outlined directions of this Concept are possible through comprehensive interdepartmental cooperation between government bodies, society, and social environment organizations. Only under these circumstances are the opportunities for the realization of the rights and legitimate interests of AAC users expanded, their quality of life is ensured as a long-term goal of all activities.The Concept provides a definition of AAC, sequentially presents the main concepts of AAC as a significant guide in organizing the scientific and practical activities of specialists and individuals involved in addressing issues in this field, defines the values and principles of using AAC as respecting the natural human need to be heard. Individuals experiencing significant communication difficulties and difficulties in using speech should be provided with conditions for using AAC in both personal and public (social, economic, political, and spiritual) spheres of life, regardless of age, health status, place of residence, location, and living conditions.An important condition for the development of the AAC system is the training of specialists with competencies in teaching the use of AAC. Relevant disciplines should be introduced into the educational programs of all levels of professional education, the development of which is based on scientifically substantiated theoretical and methodological foundations and best practices.The implementation of the Concept of Development of Alternative and Augmentative Communication system will help to resolve the existing contradiction between the high significance of using AAC to ensure the realization of the rights and needs of children and adults who do not use or have limited speech, and significant deficits in various areas of providing AAC use.