Ceanna MacGregor & Melanie Boyle: Building Connection through AAC Professional Learning Networks

This week, we share Chris’s interview with Ceanna MacGregor and Melanie Boyd! Ceanna is an AAC specialist and teacher working with CALL Scotland, an organization that supports staff and pupils in overcoming barriers related to assistive and communication technologies. Melanie Boyd is an AAC consultant who runs her own consultancy called Communication Angel. Melanie's career shift into AAC was inspired by the communication needs of her daughter. Ceanna and Melanie share about their participation in the professional learning network, Scottish AAC Geeks, and some of the benefits they have both received participating in this group.

Before the interview, Chris and Rachel share a listener question about her son’s device being wiped, highlighting the need for multiple backups you can access if something happens to the AAC device.

Key ideas this week:

🔑 The Power of Collaboration and Networking in AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication): Ceanna and Melanie emphasized the role of collaboration in advancing AAC implementation. Their involvement in the Scottish AAC Geeks highlights how professional networks, even small ones, can create a supportive environment for sharing knowledge and fostering innovation in AAC practices.

🔑 Overcoming Barriers and Shifting Mindsets in AAC Implementation: A central theme was addressing the challenges of fixed or negative attitudes toward AAC. They focused on strategies to promote positive mindsets, such as sharing success stories and advocating for a culture of belief in the potential of AAC users.

🔑 The Role of Innovation and Personalized Support: The discussion highlighted exciting advancements like the integration of AI in AAC and computer environmental controls, which offer personalized solutions and greater independence for users. Ceanna and Melanie also emphasized the importance of providing ongoing support to users, their families, and educators to ensure sustainable AAC implementation.

Learn more about the Communication Matters International AAC Conference at https://communicationmatters.org.uk/conference

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