Thesis
“I’d vote team…”: Multi-stakeholder Views on Augmentative Alternative
Honours, Murdoch University
2022
Abstract
Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) are devices that augment/facilitate language development and act as an alternative speech modality. 1.2 million Australians have difficulty with verbal speech and may require AAC interventions. This includes children with developmental disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy and autism) with complex communication needs. Our qualitative study explores multi-stakeholder perspectives of barriers and facilitators of AAC use. We conducted structured interviews with 9 carers, 10 educators, and 11 clinicians currently supporting AAC users in Australia. Reflexive thematic analysis generated 28 subthemes forming five overarching themes: Stakeholder Knowledge, Stakeholder Attitudes, Resources, User Willingness and Device Fit. Our multi-stakeholder approach allowed us to identify nuanced differences between stakeholder groups. Contrasting perspectives were, carers faced additional challenges during knowledge acquisition, educators felt left out during device assessment and clinicians distinguished between perceived versus actual stigma. Findings inform the design of communication partner training that is tailored to stakeholder needs, and thus improving the support given to AAC users.
Details
- Title
- “I’d vote team…”: Multi-stakeholder Views on Augmentative Alternative
- Authors/Creators
- Kaylynn Choo
- Contributors
- Shu H Yau (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, Centre for Healthy Ageing
- Awarding Institution
- Murdoch University; Honours
- Identifiers
- 991005779522107891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Psychology
- Resource Type
- Thesis
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