Comfort and Knowledge of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices in College Students
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and systems are used in clinical practice to supplement or compensate for communication impairments. Many individuals working in healthcare and education are often called upon to support the usage and management of AAC in the populations they serve. This research study examines the AAC knowledge and comfort of college students majoring in communication disorders, education, and nursing. The subjects were asked to answer multiple-choice and short answer questions about their experience with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, their comfort with using or helping someone with their AAC device, and their knowledge of AAC. These results were analyzed to explore what experiences and coursework may result in greater knowledge and comfort in supporting and working with those who utilize AAC in communication.
Keywords: AAC, Assistive Technology, Communication, Healthcare, Education, Nursing, Communication Disorders
Topic(s):Communication Disorders
Disability Studies
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 304-5
Location: SUB GEO C
Time: 2:15