Aided Communication in Everyday Interaction

Citation

Cheryl Dobbs (2015), "Aided Communication in Everyday Interaction", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 9 No. 1, pp. 68-68. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAT-12-2014-0033

This book brings together a selection of research that focuses upon the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) with individuals in their everyday interactions and settings. It begins with its editors putting forward the argument that a shifting focus and interest towards research that makes use of qualitative methodologies and theoretical paradigms, including the use of participatory frameworks in the collection and examination of data, is helping to bring about new understandings into the field of AAC and its use. In contrast to merely focusing upon the description of functions and patterns of communication in staged activity and in quantitative terms, they suggest that a qualitative examination of the interaction of individuals in their familiar surroundings presents new opportunities for interpretation and analysis.

The subsequent chapters focus upon research that examines the communication and interaction of an AAC user with others in their own everyday lives. A range of ages, including children as well as adults, are involved and their respective use of AAC (both low and high technology) is examined. Many of the chapters make use of Conversation Analysis as a tool for analysis but some include greater attention to the multimodality of communication. The emphasis upon natural settings captures the exchange between peers and draws attention to a range of considerations including the proficiencies and influences of others involved in each interaction. Generally, authors focus their analysis and discussion upon the competences of AAC users and examine the positive features of their communication rather than emphasise deficiency. Their interpretation includes a critical analysis of AAC use and draws attention to its differing forms, diversity in age of user and their needs.

In summary, the tone of the book sustains the argument that much can be learned from enquiry-based approaches to research and particularly those that take place within the user's own environment. It emphasizes that a qualitative approach, with emphasis upon participatory methodologies, not only provides a valuable addition to the evidence base of AAC use, but can equally be used to contribute and influence assessment and intervention in both AAC practice and development.

This book will be of interest to anyone involved in the use of AAC, both academically and in practice, but also to those with a much wider interest in the examination of conversation and communicative practices.