At Control Bionics, we believe that every voice deserves to be heard—clearly, confidently, and in a way that works for the communicator. That’s why we’re excited to introduce The Block, a new AAC vocabulary pageset distributed exclusively by Control Bionics, thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of auditory scanners, individuals with significant visual impairments, and emerging high-tech communicators.
Why The Block Was Created
Traditional AAC pagesets often assume strong visual processing or literacy skills, leaving auditory scanning users with limited, inefficient options. Communicating through auditory scanning requires intense working memory, quick attention, and precise timing—making it challenging for many users to fully participate in conversations.
The Block was created to change that. By combining a predictable layout, high-frequency core words, and carefully crafted auditory prompts, it reduces the cognitive load on users while maximizing communication speed and accuracy. The consistent structure of its “blocks” helps users anticipate where vocabulary lives, filter out irrelevant prompts, and focus on the words they need—resulting in more confident, meaningful communication.
While The Block is optimized for auditory scanning, it’s versatile enough for:
- Individuals with significant visual impairments who benefit from predictable auditory cues
- Emerging communicators developing foundational AAC skills
- High-tech AAC users who require reduced motor demands and simplified navigation
It’s also easy for communication partners, educators, and therapists, to offering an intuitive layout that supports both independent communication and partner-assisted scanning.
Who Created The Block
The Block was developed by Megan McGrath, MA CCC-SLP, and Jennifer Pucher, MS CCC-SLP, two experienced speech-language pathologists with deep expertise in AAC and a passion for designing tools that empower users. Their combined clinical insight and real-world experience shaped a system that is practical, adaptable, and user-centered.
How to Access The Block
- If you have recently received a new device from Control Bionics, or started a trial with us, The Block may already be on your device. Since August 1, 2025 it can be found in “Users.”
- Don’t see it? Request The Block to be added to your existing Control Bionics device here. Please include information about who the device was purchased for so we can track your request.
Control Bionics is very excited to share The Block with you! To see the pageset in action, watch this short video! To learn more, check our webinar list for live or recorded courses on The Block. Welcome to the neighborhood!
