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Update on Preservice Training in Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Speech-Language Pathologists
Rachel K Johnson1, Jessica Prebor2
1Department of Communication Disorders & Special Education, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.
American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology
|May 29, 2019
Summary
Academic programs now offer more augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) training for speech-language pathologists. However, most students still lack essential clinical experience in AAC, highlighting a critical need for improvement.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Academic Training Programs
Background:
- The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) updated its Certification Standards of Clinical Practice.
- Assessing preservice training in AAC is crucial for speech-language pathology (SLP) programs.
- Previous surveys established a baseline for AAC training in academic settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report current data on AAC preservice training in US academic programs for SLPs.
- To compare current AAC training with previous survey findings.
- To identify changes and areas needing improvement in AAC education.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 279 US speech-language pathology graduate training programs.
- Data were collected from programs listed by the Council on Academic Accreditation.
- Response rate was 28.4% (79 surveys returned).
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in programs offering at least one primary AAC course was observed.
- Inclusion of AAC content in other courses and specialized AAC courses has risen.
- The majority of programs report fewer than half of students graduate with AAC clinical hours.
- Limited training grants and doctoral training opportunities in AAC persist.
Conclusions:
- US academic programs have enhanced preservice AAC training over the last decade.
- There is a critical need to increase clinical experience in AAC for SLP students.
- Further development of doctoral training and research grants in AAC is necessary to meet demand.
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