Glossary of Terms on Autism
This glossary is designed to explain some of the scientific terminology, abbreviations etc. used by some people when they talk about autism or research.
You may be able to find more information, including links to other parts of this website, by clicking on the title of an item.
If you can’t find the word you are looking for, or you know of a word we should include, please email info@researchautism.net
Disclaimer
The fact that an intervention is listed in this glossary does not necessarily mean that we agree with its use. Nor does it necessarily mean that there is any scientifically valid or reliable evidence behind it.
Over time we hope to evaluate each of the interventions listed in this glossary, providing a ranking which tells you the level of scientific evidence which supports or does not support its use. For more information please see Treatments and Therapies for Autism Currently Under Scientific Evaluation by Research Autism
- Glossary Item
- Description
- AAC
-
Acronym for alternative and augmentative communication, which refers to the different ways (other than speech) that people use to communicate with each other.
Unaided AAC systems are those that require no additional pieces of equipment. These include manual signing, gestures, facial, expressions, pantomime, pointing, and/or eye gaze
Aided AAC systems include some kind of external device, and can include a wide variety of methods ranging from no tech/low tech to high tech. Aided AAC systems generally involve devices that display symbols a person selects to convey messages to listeners.
Related Interventions
Facilitated Communication and Autism, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Autism, Sign Language and Autism, Speech and Language Therapy and Autism, Voice Output Communication Aids and Autism
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Last Updated : 20/01/2012
