Glossary+of+Terms

=**Glossary of Terms-**= =**Assistive Technology**- Assistive technology is technology used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Assistive technology can include mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, as well as hardware, software, and peripherals that assist people with disabilities in accessing computers or other information technologies. = = = =**Autism**- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. = = = =** Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ACC) - ** Includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. = = = =**Communication Board**- Communication boards make language visible and accessible for individuals who have speech impairments. These low-technology communication displays consist of photographs, symbols, words/phrases or a combination of all three. = = = =**Dynamic Display**- A feature of some communication devices that allows the user to change the vocabulary options that he can see. Navigating these displays is a bit like browsing the World Wide Web in that you can move back and forth between the displays with buttons. = = = =**Picture Communication Symbols (PCS)** are a set of color and black & white drawings originally developed by Mayer-Johnson, LLC for use in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. These AAC systems may be high-tech or low-tech such as a communication board.= = = =**Speech-generating devices** (**SGDs**), also known as voice output communication aids, are electronic augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems used to supplement or replace speech or writing for individuals with severe speech impairments, enabling them to verbally communicate their needs.= = = =**Stimming**- a repetitive body movement, such as hand flapping. The term is shorthand for self-stimulation. Repetitive movement, or stereotypy. =