Revisión de conceptos, prácticas, paradigmas y evidencias en comunicación aumentativa

Background and objectives

Augmentative communication (AC) is a field that has experienced significant advances in recent decades, although practices and concepts not always aligned with scientific evidence persist. This study aims to review key concepts, emerging paradigms, and the most innovative practices in AC, identifying their strengths and limitations. It also examines the challenges posed by the proliferation of poorly rigorous information and emphasizes the need to implement Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) to enhance the quality of interventions.

Materials and methods

A narrative review of recent scientific literature was conducted, complemented by reflections based on professional experience, to analyze relevant concepts, methods, and approaches in AC. The topics reviewed include Assisted Natural Language, Core Vocabularies, Robust Systems, Motor Planning, Presumption of Competence, and Gestalt Language Processing.

Results

The analysis shows that some current trends in AC lack solid empirical support, which may affect the quality of interventions. However, evidence-based strategies, such as Assisted Language Modeling, have proven effective in enhancing users’ linguistic development.

Conclusions

The findings highlight that EBP is essential to ensure ethical and effective interventions. Strengthening professional training and supporting families are recommended as key pillars to optimize AC practices.