Comparing Interventions With Speech-Generating Devices and Other Augmentative and Alternative Communication Modes: A...

Area of Science:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Developmental Psychology
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Optimal augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for children with complex communication needs are influenced by child characteristics, preferences, and system features.
• This meta-analysis synthesizes single-case design studies comparing young children's communication skill acquisition using speech-generating devices (SGDs) and other AAC modes.

Approach:

• A systematic literature search identified 19 single-case experimental design studies with 66 participants (mean age = 4.9 years).
• Data on study details, rigor, participant characteristics, design, and outcomes were coded.
• Random-effects multilevel meta-analysis was performed using log response ratios as effect sizes.

Key Points:

• No significant differences were found between SGDs and picture exchange for children learning to request.
• Children showed preferences for and learned to request more successfully with SGDs compared to manual sign.
• Children preferring picture exchange learned to request more easily with it than with SGDs.

Conclusions:

• Young children with disabilities can request effectively using either SGDs or picture exchange systems in structured settings.
• Further research is needed to compare AAC modes across diverse participants, communication functions, linguistic complexity, and learning contexts.