Use of technology for literacy acquisition among children with communication difficulties

This chapter addresses some of the assistive technology (AT) uses that have been developed to enhance literacy skills by children with communication difficulties (CD). The chapter addresses the importance of communication development and its essential role in a literacy-based society. The importance of AT and its impact on the development and use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies are addressed. Results of studies that demonstrate the significant impact that AT and AAC have on the enhancement of literacy acquisition among children with CD are provided, as well as an understanding as to the scaffolding nature and impact graphic symbols may have on enhancing reading and writing skills. This chapter describes results of a study that implemented AAC and AT strategies using graphic and orthographic symbols for enhancing language and literacy in six schools for children with CD. Results of this study demonstrated a significant increase in language and communication skills measured across all schools. This chapter reflects on existing technologies and on the need to develop systematic instruction to enable skillful understanding of their potential.