Evidence-Based Literacy Instruction for Individuals Who Require Augmentative and Alternative Communication: A Case Study of a Student with Multiple Disabilities

2008 ◽  
Vol 29 (02) ◽  
pp. 120-132 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janice Light ◽  
David McNaughton ◽  
Marissa Weyer ◽  
Lauren Karg
2012 ◽  
Vol 21 (4) ◽  
pp. 136-143
Author(s):  
Lynn E. Fox

Abstract The self-anchored rating scale (SARS) is a technique that augments collaboration between Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) interventionists, their clients, and their clients' support networks. SARS is a technique used in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, a branch of systemic family counseling. It has been applied to treating speech and language disorders across the life span, and recent case studies show it has promise for promoting adoption and long-term use of high and low tech AAC. I will describe 2 key principles of solution-focused therapy and present 7 steps in the SARS process that illustrate how clinicians can use the SARS to involve a person with aphasia and his or her family in all aspects of the therapeutic process. I will use a case study to illustrate the SARS process and present outcomes for one individual living with aphasia.


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (12) ◽  
pp. 98-106
Author(s):  
Christopher Brum

This paper aims to provide an overview of literacy as it relates to children with deafblindness, including information on literacy instruction and specific examples of activities that support literacy development for this population. It will also explain how augmentative and alternative communication supports, including the use of technology, can be integrated into literacy instruction for individuals with deafblindness.


1995 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-20 ◽  
Author(s):  
Doreen M. Blischak

A case study is presented to describe the development of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and literacy skills by a 9-year-old child, Thomas, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and a central vision impairment. Thomas’s development and progress from birth to second grade is chronicled. Development and use of his AAC system also is described, along with activities for language and literacy development and his inclusion in a second grade classroom.


2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-12
Author(s):  
Mauro José Conte ◽  
Marcelo Gitirana Gomes Ferreira ◽  
Alejandro R. García Ramírez

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques are employed to mediate communication with people who have communication disorders, as in cases of intellectual disability. Although there are various digital solutions that promote alternative communication options for individuals with communication disorders, only a few of them have been specifically designed or targeted to people with intellectual disability (ID). This work is motivated by the lack of AAC solutions contributing to the rehabilitation processes of individuals with intellectual disability in Brazil. The study presents a mobile-based AAC solution conceived as a tool to assist the rehabilitation process of people with ID. The design was based on user-centered design principles and accessibility standards. The System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire was used to evaluate the solution. Four specialists and twenty-five students participated in this study. The proposed solution shows the potential educational value for professionals who assist individuals with intellectual disability in Brazil.


2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meng-Chuan Lai ◽  
Evdokia Anagnostou ◽  
Max Wiznitzer ◽  
Carrie Allison ◽  
Simon Baron-Cohen

Autism is both a medical condition that can give rise to disability and an example of human neurological variation (‘neurodiversity’) that contributes to identity, with cognitive assets and challenges. We refer to this as the dual nature of autism. Enhancing adaptation and wellbeing is the ultimate goal for intervention/support. Evidence-based support for autistic people across the lifespan is emerging. Support should be collaborative between autistic individuals, their families, and service providers, taking a shared decision-making approach. To maximize the individual’s potential, comprehensive early intervention and parent-mediated intervention, ideally taking a naturalistic approach, may help support the early development of adaptive, cognitive and language skills. Targeted intervention of social skills and aspects of cognition may help but challenges remain for behavioural flexibility and generalisation to different contexts. To minimize barriers for an individual’s development and adaptation, augmentative and alternative communication may potentially reduce communication difficulties. Alleviating co-occurring health challenges by timely medical, pharmacological or psychological interventions is essential. Finally, optimizing the person-environment fit by creating autism-friendly contexts through reasonable adjustments is critical. This involves supporting families, reducing stigma, enhancing peer understanding of autism, and promoting true inclusion in education, community and work environments, alongside strong advocacy.


2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 584-592
Author(s):  
Lori Marra ◽  
Katie Micco

Purpose The purpose of this clinical focus article was to assess the communication partner's (CP) perception regarding the effectiveness of a CP training model to support augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) use within a parent–adolescent dyad. Method This case study implements an adaptation of an 8-stage strategy instruction protocol for teaching aided language modeling across functional activities. Procedures for designing CP training to meet the specific needs of a particular CP and an individual using AAC (IUA) are offered. Pre- and posttraining questionnaires surveyed the CP's feelings and knowledge about using the AAC strategies and the IUA's AAC skill level. Results Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the CP's responses on the pre- and posttraining questionnaires revealed more confidence in supporting her son when using his device, increased knowledge of strategies to support AAC use, and increased understanding of the device operation. She also perceived that her son used his device more confidently and effectively in a variety of ways. Conclusion CP training that includes strategy instruction, along with practice and feedback, helps to increase the CP's and the IUA's understanding of the specific device and how to use it in more naturalistic, functional settings and situations. Since the CP's needs are similar across developmental and neurogenic groups, the direct strategy instruction described in this clinical focus article can be used by practicing clinicians working with pediatric or neurogenic populations to teach communication and operational skills. The results suggest that CP training should be included in treatment planning for speech-language pathologists working with individuals with complex communication needs who use AAC.


2022 ◽  
pp. 98-113
Author(s):  
Laura Roche ◽  
Jeff Sigafoos

Educating people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD)creates a number of challenges. One general challenge relates to identifying and successfully implementing instructional programs for developing and enhancing the person's adaptive behavior, such as teaching communication and social skills and increasing their overall level of engagement. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of three main instructional approaches that have been applied to enhance engagement and adaptive behavior functioning among people with PIMD. These approaches are (1) intensive interaction, (2) systematic instruction, and (3) assistive technology. Two case studies are included to illustrate the use of assistive technology—specifically augmentative and alternative communication devices and micro-switches—with two adolescents with PIMD. This overview and the case studies suggest that the use of systematic instructional tactics to establish functional use of assistive technology can be an effective instructional approach for people with PIMD.


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