Frequently Asked Questions

Find your answers below, or get in touch to learn more.

  1. What is Smartbox Academy?
    Smartbox Academy is a dedicated platform for learning about AAC and Grid. We have created it to raise awareness of AAC and support the people who use AAC to be successful. We also want to be able to provide flexible training that allows customers to choose self-directed learning in their own time. Smartbox Academy is for professionals working with AAC and others supporting AAC users.

  2. Who is Smartbox Academy for?
    Smartbox Academy is for professionals working with AAC and others supporting AAC users.

  3. How do I get started?
    When you first join Smartbox Academy you will be asked to sign up. Once you have created your account, and logged in, you can browse the Academy, access a range of courses, and view all of your learning history in one place.

  4. Can anyone create an account on Smartbox Academy?
    Yes. Creating an account is free and gives you access to all our free courses with the option to purchase further learning content.

  5. How do I find courses on Smartbox Academy?
    You can browse for courses using the course catalogue on the right-hand side of your screen.

  6. Are courses free?
    Core content is available for free on Smartbox Academy as well as a range of low cost, specialist courses. We will continue to increase the range of courses available year on year.

  7. Will I get a certificate of completion?
    Absolutely! All courses offered through Smartbox Academy provide certificates upon successful completion. You can easily find these certificates in your account, download them, and showcase your achievements on professional platforms like LinkedIn, as well as other social media channels.

  8. Are the courses accredited?
    If you are outside of the United States, Smartbox Academy courses can count towards Continued Professional Development (CPD) and your certificate of completion with provide evidence. Our online courses can count towards your Professional Development Hours (PDHs) which can be logged with your relevant awarding body such as ASHA if you are in the United States. You must track your PDHs and submit them to ASHA. More information can be found on the ASHA Website.

  9. How do I see my progress?
    Once logged in, you can select ‘progress’ from the right-hand side. This will show you your learning history and allow you to download your certificates and badges.

  10. Do I need Grid or Grid for iPad to complete these courses?
    Some of the courses have content specifically on Grid or Grid for iPad. For these courses, we recommend you have access to relevant software. You can download a free trial of Grid and Grid for iPad here.

  11. How do I get help with logging into Smartbox Academy or help with Grid or Grid for iPad?
    Please contact support@thinksmartbox.com if you have not received your verification email for Smartbox Academy. Please provide the name and email address that the account was registered with. You can contact our support team for help downloading and starting Grid. You can also find getting started guidance on Smartbox Hub.

  12. Will the Academy replace other training options such as online workshops and personalised training?
    Not at all. We aim to provide the most flexible training for our customers which is why we offer Smartbox Academy alongside our online workshops and personalised training sessions.

  13. Do I need any prior knowledge of AAC to enrol on the Smartbox Academy?
    No. The courses in Smartbox Academy range from beginner to Expert. You can find the course level in the course description.

  14. Can I get a refund on a purchased course?
    Refunds can be issued as long as you have not started the course and you request the refund within 48 hours of purchase. To request a refund, please contact our team by emailing training@thinksmartbox.com. Please include the email address on the Smartbox Academy account that made the purchase and confirm the course.

  15. Are courses available in other languages?
    Courses are currently available in English, though we are looking at offering the courses in more languages later. Please let us know if you would be interested in seeing courses available in a different language.

  16. Is any of the content applicable to friends and family members of an AAC user?
    Yes. Although Smartbox academy was created for, and primarily caters to professionals working within AAC, it is also open to family members and other individuals who play a role in assisting AAC users.

  17. Has any of the content been made for AAC users to complete independently?
    Although the content has been created primarily for individuals who support AAC users, some AAC users may choose to complete the courses themselves. However, their ability to do so would heavily depend on their access method. It's important to note that, at this stage, provisions have not been made to support alternative access methods.

  18. How do you use my data?

    For information about the use of data please see our privacy policy here.


  19. Can I download an invoice for a paid course?

    Yes! click on your name in the top navigation bar and select 'My Payments'. This will take you to a list of all courses you have purchased. Select the download icon next to the relevant course to download your invoice