Becoming ready to use a voice output communication aid
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to describe the journey of a young person with severe and complex communication needs from no formal expressive communication system, to a point where he is motivated and able to use a text based voice output communication aid for a range of communication functions, in a variety of settings, and with a range of communication partners.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper is a descriptive single case study, documenting long‐term changes in speech, language, and communication needs and use, and discontinuation of use, of range of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools.
Findings
The paper describes the different AAC interventions and their success or otherwise in supporting the young person. It also describes key educational and therapeutic aspects of his management. Changes in the young person's interaction, language and literacy skills, and how his family and the professionals around him perceived the changes in his communication are highlighted.
Research limitations/implications
The paper is a description of one person without a known underlying diagnosis of his severe and complex communication impairment and might, therefore, be of restricted use when generalized.
Originality/value
There are few published longitudinal descriptions concerning how, why, and when young people use or discard AAC tools. This paper highlights the multiple and various factors of the factors that can be at work when actually providing intervention.
Keywords
Citation
Sherlock, C. (2011), "Becoming ready to use a voice output communication aid", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 5 No. 4, pp. 233-241. https://doi.org/10.1108/17549451111190632
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited