Aided conversations differ from spoken ones in their transitions between turns and symbols because seeking and choosing symbols takes more time than speaking words naturally. This study adopted the concepts and principles of conversation analysis (CA) to analyze the transitions between symbols during the construction of aided turns. The data was…

Purpose: Elementary-aged peers often need support for them to have positive interactions with classmates with autism who are minimally speaking (i.e., fewer than 30 functional spoken words). This study examined whether peers could learn to use responsive interaction strategies to support inclusive play and communication within a peer network…

This meta-analysis examined communication outcomes in single-case design studies of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions and their relationship to participant characteristics. Variables addressed included chronological age, pre-intervention communication mode, productive repertoire, and pre-intervention imitation skills.…

With recent data reporting approximately 40--50% of Deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) individuals as having a disability, complex communication needs are not uncommon within this population and can present unique communicative challenges. Implementing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems can provide this population with an…

The aim of this pilot study was to explore the feasibility and language outcomes of coaching parents to implement an aided language stimulation intervention using Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Display (PODD) communication books. Two parent--child dyads, with children aged 4 years 6 months and 4 years 8 months participated in a home-based…

Few studies have investigated how individuals with partially intelligible speech choose to communicate, including how, when, and why they might use a speech-generating device (SGD). This study aimed to add to the literature by exploring how this group of individuals use different communication strategies. Qualitative interviews were carried out…

This qualitative study critically examines the knowledge and readiness of teachers in South African classrooms in utilising Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for learners facing communication challenges. The study addresses the concerns expressed by teachers regarding their lack of knowledge and skills in utilizing AAC, highlighting…

The purpose of this case study was to explore the communication needs of a child with deafness and cerebral palsy (DCP) and how these needs can be supported by interventions targeting the use of communication approaches and strategies. One semi-structured interview with the child's parents and five observations of the child in different contexts…

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a core component of special education for many children with learning disabilities and/or autism who have minimal or no speech. Much literature focuses on implementation of AAC in the classroom or therapy setting, but less is known about how AAC is used in the family home. Few studies are…

Literacy plays an especially important role in aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) because spelling and writing support precise communication. Fortunately, the importance of literacy is reflected in federal legislation that mandates that all students, regardless of ability, receive comprehensive literacy instruction.…

A qualitative study was conducted to identify the beliefs and attitudes of preservice special education teachers regarding teaching use of tangible symbols for students with multiple disabilities. Using tangible symbols is a promising practice with an emerging evidence base that supports communication development for students with complex…

Individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in later stages may rely on a variety of modalities to communicate. The current study used conversational analysis techniques to examine naturalistic face-to-face interaction between a man with late-stage ALS and his wife to understand the types of accommodations they made to ensure that…

Purpose: Guided by cognitive load theory and cognitive theory of multimedia learning, the purpose of this study was to evaluate players' ability to integrate dynamic information presented under different conditions: a verbal condition, in which instructions were given orally; a visual condition, in which instructions were shown using arrow…

Using speech as an effective communication method is a challenge for many individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research suggests aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) used with young individuals with complex communication needs (CCN) can result in improved communication quality and frequency. The effectiveness of AAC…

Purpose: Families and professionals often consider augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) a "last resort" for persons with communication challenges; however, speaking autistic adults have reported that they would have benefited from access to AAC as children. This tutorial discusses the history of this "last resort"…