Reported Practices of Speech-Language Pathologists Working with Diverse Users of Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Author

Claire Gunn, Fontbonne College

Year of Award

2018

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

College

College of Education & Allied Health

Department

Communication Disorders and Deaf Education

First Advisor

Gale B. Rice

Second Advisor

Lynne Shields

Third Advisor

Amanda Eaton

Keywords

communication, assessment, diversity, family, AAC, interventions, ethnicity

Abstract

Current literature outlines the differentiated practice required with diverse students in terms of their socioeconomic status, English language ability, LGBTQ status, race or ethnicity, and chronic medical conditions. There is a gap in the literature related to evaluation and treatment of diverse students who use Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). The goal of this study is to evaluate how well equipped speech-language pathologists are in evaluating, treating, and training parents of users of AAC with a concurrent aspect of cultural diversity. The results will add to the existing research on the use of assistive technology with diverse populations. Results were obtained through a survey distributed to SLPs with a proficiency in AAC. The survey asked them to share about their experience in parent training evaluation, and treatment of diverse users of AAC, and how their graduate level education and continued education prepared them to treat these students. The results of this survey show a correlation between comfort and knowledge in working with this population, and indicate specific considerations necessary in treating each specialized group. The implications of this research are that more education may benefit SLPs in their work with diverse users of AAC, and that more research studies are necessary to develop strong evidence-based practice with these clients and their families.

Document Type

Restricted Thesis

Recommended Citation

Gunn, Claire, "Reported Practices of Speech-Language Pathologists Working with Diverse Users of Augmentative and Alternative Communication" (2018). All Theses, Dissertations, and Capstone Projects. 103.
https://griffinshare.fontbonne.edu/all-etds/103