Predictors in the Selection of an AAC system: An Evidence-based Report on Overcoming Challenges

Sita Sreekumar , Suja K Kunnath , Vineetha Sara Philip
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5463/dcid.v29i1.673
Submitted: 2020-09-14 11:56:15
Published: 2018-07-17

Purpose:  Identification of the most suitable Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) device for individuals with varying degrees of communication impairments is immensely challenging. This study aimed to understand the effectiveness of analysing the various sensory, cognitive and environmental factors during the selection of an AAC.

Methods: Four children with different developmental disabilities were assessed in the domains of sensory ability, cognitive skills and environmental factors. The selection of an AAC was primarily dependent on the positive indicators in these domains and the specific challenges pertaining to each participant.

Results: Participants’ progress was assessed. All the children progressed across the levels of the Communication Matrix.

Conclusion: Understanding of sensory perceptual capacities and an attempt to overcome environmental barriers lead to the successful use of an AAC system.  The study attempts to establish a platform for further research on the efficacy of utilising sensory perceptual learning with AAC to overcome communication barriers in children with severe developmental disabilities.

Keywords

Augmentative Alternative Communication developmental disability sensory perceptual capacities

Authors

Sita Sreekumar

Sita Sreekumar is a Lecturer in the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology at National Institute of Speech and Hearing.

Suja K Kunnath
Dr. Suja Kunnath completed her Ph.D in Audiology Speech Language Pathology from National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore. Her research interests include developing intervention protocols for children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism and Learning disability. She currently works as an Associate Professor in Department of Neurodevelopmental Sciences.

Vineetha Sara Philip

Vineetha Sara Philip received her graduate and postgraduate degree in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology from Ali Yavar Jung National Institute for the Hearing Handicapped (AYJNIHH), Mumbai. Her areas of research interest are AAC intervention, assessment and intervention of adult neuro communication disorders, swallowing disorders and diagnostic audiology. She works as Lecturer in the Department of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology.

How to Cite

Sita Sreekumar, Suja K Kunnath, Vineetha Sara Philip (2018-07-17). Predictors in the Selection of an AAC system: An Evidence-based Report on Overcoming Challenges. Disability, CBR & Inclusive Development, Vol. 29 No. 1 (2018): Spring 2018, 60-66. https://doi.org/10.5463/dcid.v29i1.673

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