Current Trends in AAC Training and Coaching Survey

Announcements
Written By Janice Reese

The purpose of the survey is to examine the extent of the education a therapist provides when dispensing a dedicated high-tech augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. The frequency and type of education provided will be explored, in addition to whether the post-dispensing learning opportunity focuses primarily on the end user or both the end user and the communication partner. As a secondary outcome, the survey is designed to determine the prevalent definitions of coaching and training within the field. This information is critical to further develop and enhance strategies to increase interaction with communication partners.

LINK TO SURVEY

Title of Study: Current Trends in Augmentative and Alternative Communication Training
and Coaching

Investigators: M. Claire Campbell, Heidi Hosick, Mallory Record
Contact: 615-936-1597, claire.campbell@vumc.org

Institutions: Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Independent Therapy Network, West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center

IRB Review: Vanderbilt University Medical Center (615-936-2576)

Description: We are asking you to participate in a research study titled "Current Trends in Augmentative and
Alternative Communication Training and Coaching." This study consists only of a voluntary survey. This
study is being led by a collaborative effort of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Independent Therapy
Network, and West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center.

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to determine the current practices of American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association [(ASHA) or equivalent] certified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) as related to the
training and/or coaching of caregivers of individuals who use high-tech augmentative and alternative
communication (AAC) devices.

Janice Reese

My name is Janice Reese and I LOVE assistive technology! I worked as an Occupational Therapist for more than 15 years, earned a Master’s degree in Education Technology, and I’m RESNA certified as an Assistive Technology Profession (ATP). I have worked in the school system for many years now and I love using technology to enhance the lives of children with disabilities. Since my first love is teaching, I’ve spent just as much time training wonderful teachers everywhere to use these tools in their classrooms. AT4Kids, llc was founded in 2008 in an effort to provide quality instruction and resources for teachers, therapists, student users and parents who wanted to know more about using AT.

I currently serve as Director of the Center for Assistive Technology, a state-supported program of the Little TN Valley Educational Cooperative. LTVEC is a non-profit agency whose goal is to provide rehabilitation services and accessibility supports for students with special needs in east Tennessee. My AT4Kids blog is designed to be as a one-stop resource for ideas and information for those wanting to learn more about the use of AT with children in the special education setting.

I hope to offer helpful hints, program and product reviews, AT recommendations, links to great new finds on the web, and lists of resources for “all things AT”.

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