Parachute without a ripcord: the skydive of communication interaction

Area of Science:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Clinical Intervention Research
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Evidence-based practice emphasizes outcome measurement for clinical decision-making.
• Extended interventions with individuals using aided communication present complex outcome evaluation challenges.
• Existing outcome measures may not fully capture the diverse goals and experiences in long-term AAC use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and explore the utility of a novel metaphor for understanding intervention outcomes.
• To provide a unifying framework for diverse goals and outcomes in extended aided communication interventions.
• To analyze the applicability of the skydiving metaphor to outcome measures for long-term high-tech AAC users.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative research approach was employed.
• Interview data were collected from adults with extensive experience using high-tech aided communication devices.
• The skydiving metaphor was used as an analytical lens to interpret the interview data.

Main Results:

• The skydiving metaphor effectively frames the multifaceted nature of outcomes in aided communication.
• It provides a relatable and comprehensive structure for discussing diverse goals and achievements over time.
• Analysis revealed how the metaphor aids in understanding the progression and varying focuses of intervention outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The skydiving metaphor serves as a valuable conceptual tool for researchers and clinicians in the field of aided communication.
• It enhances the understanding and assessment of intervention outcomes for individuals using high-tech AAC devices.
• This framework can facilitate more nuanced and holistic evaluations of long-term AAC interventions.