Shared Smiles Through Creativity: Developing Low-Tech AAC in Resource-Limited
Document Type
Poster
Start Date
28-4-2026 12:00 PM
End Date
28-4-2026 2:00 PM
Description
Introduction Access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools varies across global contexts. In many U.S. clinical settings, AAC intervention relies on commercially produced materials or high-technology devices. In resource-limited environments, clinicians often rely on creativity, local materials, and cultural knowledge to support functional communication.
Purpose This poster describes one graduate student’s experience designing and implementing low-technology AAC supports using locally available materials during a two week clinical immersion in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Methods Three first-year LSUHSC speech-language pathology graduate students participated in supervised clinical and observational experiences with professionals, clients, and families. The reporting student spent over 15 hours supporting children and adults with complex communication needs while collaborating with a translator. AAC supports were created using inexpensive materials including scrap cardboard, tape as a laminating substitute, yarn for binding, and locally purchased seeds to add tactile elements to communication books. The student also visited a market to identify culturally relevant foods and textures for AAC materials.
Results Low-tech AAC tools created from materials supported participation, tactile engagement, and functional communication. These experiences highlighted the importance of creativity and environmental awareness when designing communication supports in resource-limited contexts.
Discussion This experience highlighted the realities of providing speech-language services in rural Thai communities where clinicians often rely on local materials and creative problem-solving. These observations emphasize the importance of adaptable, culturally responsive AAC practices that prioritize functional communication.
Recommended Citation
Laroche, Abigail; Duhon, Lyndsey; and Sanderson, Madilyn, "Shared Smiles Through Creativity: Developing Low-Tech AAC in Resource-Limited" (2026). School of Allied Health Professions Research Day. 1.
https://digitalscholar.lsuhsc.edu/ahrd/2026/posters/1
Shared Smiles Through Creativity: Developing Low-Tech AAC in Resource-Limited
Introduction Access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools varies across global contexts. In many U.S. clinical settings, AAC intervention relies on commercially produced materials or high-technology devices. In resource-limited environments, clinicians often rely on creativity, local materials, and cultural knowledge to support functional communication.
Purpose This poster describes one graduate student’s experience designing and implementing low-technology AAC supports using locally available materials during a two week clinical immersion in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Methods Three first-year LSUHSC speech-language pathology graduate students participated in supervised clinical and observational experiences with professionals, clients, and families. The reporting student spent over 15 hours supporting children and adults with complex communication needs while collaborating with a translator. AAC supports were created using inexpensive materials including scrap cardboard, tape as a laminating substitute, yarn for binding, and locally purchased seeds to add tactile elements to communication books. The student also visited a market to identify culturally relevant foods and textures for AAC materials.
Results Low-tech AAC tools created from materials supported participation, tactile engagement, and functional communication. These experiences highlighted the importance of creativity and environmental awareness when designing communication supports in resource-limited contexts.
Discussion This experience highlighted the realities of providing speech-language services in rural Thai communities where clinicians often rely on local materials and creative problem-solving. These observations emphasize the importance of adaptable, culturally responsive AAC practices that prioritize functional communication.