Marshall McLuhan’s famous phrase “the medium is the message” suggests that the way we communicate shapes meaning just as much as what we say. This idea is highly relevant in the field of AAC, where the tools and methods used for communication influence not only the message but also how it is received and understood by others. My background in Culture, Media, and Communication has given me a particular interest in how different forms of communication shape our interactions and perceptions.
AAC Shapes Interaction
The method a person uses to communicate, whether a high-tech speech-generating device, a symbol board, or eye-gaze technology, affects how their message is received. For example, a voice-output device may attract more attention in a conversation than a low-tech book, influencing social dynamics. Additionally, the voice selected for a device may impact how a person is perceived in terms of age, gender or background. These factors demonstrate that the medium used for communication actively shapes interactions beyond just the content of the message.
This idea was reinforced for me recently when I sent an email that was misinterpreted. The tone I had intended didn’t come across clearly, and I realised that the medium, email, was shaping the message in a way I hadn’t anticipated. This may be something AAC users experience regularly, as different communication methods influence not only what is said but also how it is perceived.
In everyday interactions, AAC users often experience additional barriers. For example, I have observed people speaking to a parent or carer instead of addressing the AAC user directly, even when the AAC user is clearly present and engaged in the conversation. This reinforces the idea that AAC is not always seen as an equal or valid form of communication, shaping social interactions in a way that diminishes the user's autonomy.
The AAC System Affects the Message Itself
Different AAC systems can influence what a person is able to say. Some systems, particularly those with word prediction, may encourage longer and more complex sentences, whereas others, such as those relying on pre-set phrases, may lead to more simplified communication. The speed of communication can also play a role; for example, if constructing a message takes a long time, the communicator may decide to shorten their response or omit information altogether.
Real-world situations highlight this challenge. For example, if an AAC user is in a busy café and just wants to order a coffee with milk, they may opt for a simple pre-programmed phrase like “coffee with milk, large” rather than constructing a full sentence from scratch. In contrast, if they were having a discussion in a more relaxed setting, they might take the time to use a more detailed message. Similarly, on a crowded bus, an AAC user might use a quick symbol-based request for “return ticket, town” rather than navigating through multiple screens to form a grammatically complete sentence. These examples show how the AAC system itself can shape not just the speed of communication but also the level of detail included in the message.
AAC as a Social and Cultural Message
The use of AAC itself carries social meaning. It challenges traditional assumptions that speech is the only valid form of communication and highlights the importance of accessibility and inclusion. However, societal perceptions of AAC users can vary, and some individuals may wrongly assume that if someone does not speak verbally, they do not understand language to the same degree. This assumption can lead to significant consequences, such as AAC users being underestimated in academic, social or professional settings.
For instance, standardised testing in schools often does not account for the processing time and alternative ways of responding that AAC users may require. As a result, their intelligence and ability may be misjudged simply because they cannot meet the same time constraints or response methods as their peers. This demonstrates how the medium of communication influences not just interaction but also the perceived competence of the communicator.
The Economics of AAC: Does Technology Send a Message?
Another consideration is the cost of AAC systems and the messages they convey about economic status. Some AAC users are able to purchase bespoke synthetic voices that match their regional accent, age or family background, while others rely on standard, pre-installed voices. What does this say about equity in communication? Similarly, having the latest and most advanced AAC device may unintentionally signal privilege, while those using older or more limited systems might face additional barriers, not just in functionality but in how they are perceived by others. The accessibility of funding and support for AAC can significantly impact not only what someone can say but also how they are socially positioned.
Context Matters: Valuing Both Formal and Informal Communication
Different AAC tools function more effectively in different environments. For example, a text-based AAC app might be well suited for written communication, whereas a symbol-based system with voice output may be more useful for face-to-face interactions. The appropriateness of a particular AAC method depends on the situation, reinforcing the idea that the medium influences both message delivery and reception.
It’s also important to recognise that communication is more than just sentence structure and grammar - it is about connection and engagement. A child using AAC will likely prioritise play and social interaction over forming grammatically perfect sentences. If an AAC system is too rigid or focused solely on structured sentence-building, it may hinder spontaneous and meaningful interaction. Valuing both formal and informal approaches to AAC ensures that users can communicate in a way that best suits their needs, whether that’s answering a test question or playing a game with friends.
Conclusion
McLuhan’s concept that the medium is the message offers valuable insight into AAC. Communication is not just about words; it is shaped by the tools used, the time and effort required, and the societal attitudes surrounding different forms of communication. Recognising this can help promote greater accessibility, awareness, and advocacy for AAC users, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to communicate effectively in all aspects of life.
