Implementing a T2L Decoding Feature via Telepractice to Support Single Word Reading by a Young Boy with Down...

Area of Science:

• Speech and Language Pathology
• Assistive Technology
• Developmental Disabilities

Background:

• Literacy is crucial for societal inclusion, especially for individuals with Down syndrome who often have speech limitations.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) offers an alternative language modality.
• Telepractice enables accessible service delivery in natural environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a telepractice-delivered literacy intervention using an AAC Transition to Literacy (T2L) decoding feature.
• To assess the effectiveness of the intervention on single-word reading and spelling skills in a child with Down syndrome.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week case study involving a young boy with Down syndrome and limited literacy skills.
• Remote intervention delivered via telepractice with home practice, utilizing an AAC T2L decoding feature.
• Data collection focused on accuracy in single-word reading and generalization to single-word spelling.

Main Results:

• The participant showed significant improvement in single-word reading, particularly with words targeted by the T2L decoding feature.
• Limited generalization of reading skills to spelling was observed.

Conclusions:

• An AAC T2L decoding feature may support early literacy skills in children with Down syndrome.
• Telepractice combined with home engagement is a feasible model for delivering literacy interventions.
• Findings suggest implications for clinical practice and future research in AAC and literacy for Down syndrome.