Active Listening

A communication technique where the listener fully concentrates on, understands, and responds to a speaker, demonstrating engagement through verbal and non-verbal feedback. Active listening behaviors include maintaining eye contact, nodding, providing verbal acknowledgments, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back what was heard. For AAC users, demonstrating active listening is challenging because device operation demands visual attention and manual focus, making it appear as though they are not paying attention to the speaker. AAC users develop alternative active listening strategies using facial expressions, body movements, and brief vocalizations that operate in parallel with device use.