This unit examines the impact of complex communication needs on a person’s participation and inclusion in education. It explores relationships, community activities and future employment within the context of current definitions of communication, complex communication needs, communicative competency, as well as Alternative and/or Augmentative Communication (AAC). The aims of AAC education, as well as the factors that serve as barriers or supports for AAC will be discussed. Explicit and practical learning skills that facilitate competent communication with people with complex needs in a variety of settings will be investigated. In addition a range of AAC instructional strategies, linked to teaching and learning techniques will be analysed with respect to the impact these strategies have on student learning, participation and relationships.