ERIC Number: EJ1226471
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2047-3869
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
AAC Services in Schools: A Special Educator's Perspective
Andzik, Natalie R.; Chung, Yun-Ching; Doneski-Nicol, Janis; Dollarhide, Colette T.
International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, v65 n2 p89-97 2019
Objectives: Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities often require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to fully meet their academic and social potential. AAC supports can be challenging for some educators to implement. This study sought to bring light to these challenges. Methods: A qualitative interview approach was utilized to examine the perspectives of 14 special education teachers who supported students using AAC systems. Participants described their experiences regarding providing AAC services. Results: Despite receiving some supports, the majority of teachers identified challenges, including inadequate training, lack of comprehensive assessment, inadequate preparation time, and inconsistent AAC implementation across team members. Conclusion: This study highlighted key factors that impacted AAC access and outcomes of students with complex communication needs. Practical implications and future research needed to enhance the communication outcomes of students were discussed.
Descriptors: Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Students with Disabilities, Special Education Teachers, Teacher Attitudes, Related Services (Special Education)
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Tests/Questionnaires; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A