Speech-language pathologists' epistemological beliefs related to augmentative and alternative communication service provisions

Abstract

Individuals with complex communication needs have substantial communication disabilities that impact their ability to meet their daily needs. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems provide one means of communication. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are the primary professionals to recommend AAC devices. While there is both anecdotal and scientific evidence which supports the benefits of an AAC device, there remains a gap between this knowledge and the practice patterns of SLPs. The purpose of this study was to use an epistemological survey to determine whether the SLP's beliefs about knowledge and learning impact whether or not they recommend AAC systems to clients. Keywords: augmentative and alternative communication, AAC, complex communication needs, speech-language pathologist, epistemological beliefs