Language Preference of a Multilingual Individual With Disabilities Using a Speech Generating Device.

Area of Science:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Developmental Disabilities
• Bilingual Education

Background:

• Individuals with disabilities who are English learners (ELs) may face communication challenges.
• Speech-generating devices (SGDs) are vital communication tools for many individuals with disabilities.
• Understanding language preferences in ELs using SGDs is essential for tailored interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the influence of interventionist language on SGD language output preference.
• To investigate the effect of interventionist language on the frequency of mands.
• To explore the role of heritage language in the communication of ELs with disabilities.

Main Methods:

• An alternating-treatments design was employed.
• A concurrent-chain arrangement was embedded within the design.
• The study focused on a 10-year-old participant with Down syndrome whose heritage language was Spanish.

Main Results:

• The participant demonstrated a preference for specific SGD language output.
• Interventionist language influenced the frequency of mands.
• Heritage language preference was observed.

Conclusions:

• Language preference assessment is recommended for ELs with disabilities using SGDs.
• Heritage language may be preferred by children with disabilities who use SGDs.
• Tailoring interventions to include heritage language can enhance communication.