The effect of aided AAC modeling on the expression of multi-symbol messages by preschoolers who use AAC

Augment Altern Commun. 2007 Mar;23(1):30-43. doi: 10.1080/07434610600807470.

Abstract

A single subject, multiple probe design across participants was used to evaluate the impact of using aided AAC modeling to support multi-symbol message production. Five preschoolers (three who used voice output communication systems, two who used non-electronic communication boards) participated in the study. Aided AAC models were provided by pointing to two symbols on the child's aided AAC system and then providing a grammatically complete spoken model while engaging in play activities. Four of the five preschoolers learned to consistently produce multi-symbol messages; the fifth did not demonstrate consistent gains. The four preschoolers who met criterion all evidenced long-term use of symbol combinations and generalized use of symbol combinations to novel play routines. Results, clinical implications, and future research directions are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Articulation Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Child Development
  • Child, Preschool
  • Communication
  • Communication Devices for People with Disabilities*
  • Developmental Disabilities / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Play and Playthings
  • Semantics*
  • Speech
  • Speech-Language Pathology / instrumentation
  • Symbolism*