A method of communication in which the individual specifically indicates the desired item in the selection set without any intermediary steps. There are four types of direction selection methods used for AAC devices/strategies: a) pointing with physical contact and force; b) pointing without physical contact; c) pointing with contact and no force; and d) picking up and exchanging. (Dowden & Cook, 2001)�(Note: message retrieval methods are not considered "intermediary steps" here.)

A rate enhancement technique in which the user selects a predetermined sequence of items to retrieve a complete word, phrase or sentence. Codes can be based on icons (symbols), alphabet letters, letters and numbers combined ("alphanumeric codes") or numbers alone. A sequence of symbols from the selection set calls up the desired word or phrase (Dowden & Cook, 2002)

A prominent characteristic of a communication device or a communication strategy. For example, voice output is a feature of many AAC devices.

An access technique that combines elements of direct selection and single-switch scanning. The individual uses a multi-switch array, for example, a joystick or arrow keys, to move the cursor in the desired direction and to make a selection.

Strategies for speeding up communication or making it easier for the AAC user (Beukelman & Mirenda, 1998)

A method of communication via spelling that uses hand configurations to represent letters of the alphabet.

A feature of some communication devices that allows the user to change the vocabulary options that he can see. Navigating these displays is a bit like browsing the World Wide Web in that you can move back and forth between the displays with buttons.

refers to how an individual uses symbolic language, whether through speech, sign, writing, or any other modality.

An individual who does not yet have any reliable means of symbolic communication, although he/she typically has non-symbolic communication (Dowden, 1999). This communication, for example using gestures and facial expressions, can be very useful with highly familiar partners, but it tends to be limited to the "here and now" or rely heavily on the partner's shared knowledge.

A technique that was popular a few years ago, in which an individual spelled messages via an alphabet board while a facilitator held the individual's arm. While the technique has been largely discredited due to the potential for partner influence, that does not mean that the individual is not capable of more communication through other alternative techniques.