Related Experiment Videos
Communication intervention for persons with severe and profound disabilities
J Reichle1, K Feeley, S Johnston
1University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Clinics in Communication Disorders
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Early communication intervention for severe disabilities is shifting towards pragmatic, interaction-focused strategies. Research highlights the need for better maintenance and generalization of learned communicative behaviors in inclusive settings.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Language Pathology
- Special Education
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Historically, communication intervention for severe disabilities began after intentional behavior emerged.
- A paradigm shift is occurring, moving from semantic to pragmatic, interaction-focused intervention logic.
- Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) offers simple strategies for environmental control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the shift towards earlier communication intervention for individuals with severe to profound disabilities.
- To address challenges in maintaining and generalizing communicative behaviors.
- To identify best practices for inclusive educational settings.
Main Methods:
- Review of current intervention strategies and research trends.
- Analysis of the social functions of communicative behaviors.
- Examination of the effectiveness of AAC options.
Main Results:
- Intervention is increasingly focused on earlier stages and pragmatic skills.
- Demonstrating long-term maintenance and generalization of communicative behaviors remains a challenge.
- There is a need for improved preparation of educators for inclusive placements.
Conclusions:
- Early, pragmatic communication intervention is crucial for individuals with severe disabilities.
- Further research is needed on maintenance, generalization, and social validity in regular classrooms.
- Developing comprehensive curricula from non-intentional to effusive communication is essential.