Date of Award

January 2013

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Document Type

Master Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Special Education

First Advisor

Charlotte A. Hubbard

Department Affiliation

Special Education

Abstract

This pilot study consisted of two main purposes: 1) to examine whether SLPs who are already using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in therapy are using apps as a form of AAC, and within what parameters, and 2) to explore possible reasons SLPs are using apps as AAC, and possible sources for their clinical decision making using AAC apps. A nationwide survey was sent out to speech-language pathologists who were members of four ASHA Special Interest Groups. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data gathered from the survey. Results from this study suggested some SLPs use apps as a form of AAC, and offered initial insight into what AAC apps being used, what app-capable devices are being incorporated into therapy for communicative purposes, and the clinical decision-making process behind choosing apps as a form of AAC. While definitive answers were not obtained, the study provided a foundation for future research on the topic of apps as a form of AAC.

Download

Share

COinS