Update on Preservice Training in Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Speech-Language Pathologists
- 27 May 2019
- journal article
- research article
- Published by American Speech Language Hearing Association in American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology
- Vol. 28 (2), 536-549
- https://doi.org/10.1044/2018_ajslp-18-0004
Abstract
Purpose This is a report of the data from a current survey of academic programs in the United States, which provide preservice training in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for speech-language pathologists in the United States. A comparison of these findings to the last reported survey was made to identify changes and areas in need of further improvement following implementation of the recent changes to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Certification Standards of Clinical Practice. Method A survey was distributed to 279 speech-language pathology graduate training programs in the United States identified from the Council on Academic Accreditation program list. Results A total of 79 survey responses were received for a 28.4% response rate. There was a statistically significant increase in the percentage of programs reported to provide at least 1 course with primary content in AAC compared to the last survey performed. The reported inclusion of AAC content in other courses has also increased, and several programs report multiple AAC courses are now offered for specialized training. The majority of the programs report that less than half of the students graduate with clinical hours in AAC. The number of training grants and doctoral training remains limited to a few programs. Conclusion Academic programs have increased the preservice training in AAC over the past decade. Data indicate a critical need for clinical experience and doctoral training to meet the growing demands of speech-language pathologists.Keywords
This publication has 15 references indexed in Scilit:
- A National Survey of Simulation Use in University Programs in Communication Sciences and DisordersAmerican Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 2018
- Use of Simulation With Standardized Patients in AAC Pre-Service Training: Potentiating Practical LearningPerspectives of the Asha Special Interest Groups, 2016
- Using High-Fidelity Simulation to Facilitate Graduate Student Clinical LearningPerspectives of the Asha Special Interest Groups, 2016
- The Benefits of Simulation-Based EducationPerspectives on Issues in Higher Education, 2015
- Advance Pedagogy: Innovative Methods of Teaching and LearningInternational Journal of Information and Education Technology, 2015
- Clinical Aspects Related to Tele-AAC: A Technical ReportPerspectives on Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 2014
- Tele-AAC ResolutionInternational Journal of Telerehabilitation, 2012
- A Review of Preservice Training in Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Speech-Language Pathologists, Special Education Teachers, and Occupational TherapistsAssistive Technology, 2010
- Communication Partner Instruction in AAC: Present Practices and Future DirectionsAugmentative and Alternative Communication, 2005
- Survey of Professional Preparation in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Speech-Language Pathology and Special Education Programs 1American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 1994