NovaChat User’s Guide
71
Basic Scan
Basic Scan is primarily a phrase-based vocabulary for emerging
communicators who access communication through auditory and/or
visual scanning. Basic Scan was developed by Lisa Nobel Martin, MA,
CCC-SLP, specifically for ChatFusion and NovaChat devices. Lisa has
years of experience working with nonverbal pediatric patients at all
stages of communication. Her focus on teaching auditory and visual
scanning techniques to these individuals has proven quite successful.
The Basic Scan file encompasses various communicative functions
(greeting, directing, protesting, commenting, requesting, sharing
information). Page navigation is used to support language formulation.
In addition, some vocabulary is
hidden and can be gradually uncovered
to scaffold learning. The Basic Scan file is meant to provide a framework
and example of where to begin with an emerging communicator who is
using auditory and/or visual scanning as a means to access
communication. Basic Scan does not provide access to a comprehensive
vocabulary. Specific items within each category can and should be
modified to meet the unique needs of individuals.
Communication Journey: Aphasia
“Communication Journey: Aphasia” is a vocabulary file containing
features and vocabulary designed to support people with aphasia. It
was developed by Lois Turner (SLP), Anne MacCallum (SLP) and Sarah
Gauthier (SLP Assistant) in consultation with a group of speech-language
pathologists who work exclusively with people with aphasia and brain
injuries. All the participants work at CAYA (Communication Assistance
for Youth and Adults) and the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre in
Vancouver, BC, Canada. The framework of the file was derived from the
Life Participation Approach to Aphasia from the Aphasia Institute in
Toronto, Canada. The pages were created to facilitate participation in
daily activities and to promote social links.
Aphasia, a disorder caused by damage to the parts of the brain where
language is stored, may affect the ability to comprehend language, to
express oneself, to read, or to spell and write. “Communication Journey:
Aphasia” can easily be adapted for use by people with different types of
aphasia and a range of cognitive levels and degrees of severity.
