Iranian Speech -Language Pathologists’ Awareness of Alternative and Augmentative Communication Methods

Authors

  • Maryam Malekian Department of Speech Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
  • Tabassom Azimi Department of Speech Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
  • Talieh Zarifian Department of Speech Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:

Objectives: Alternative and Augmentative communication ( AAC ) provides a means of effective communication to persons with severe impairments in speech comprehension and production. The aim of this study was to examine the awareness of Iranian speech-language pathologists (SLPs) of AAC services. Methods:  A total of 111 SLPs who were selected by convenience sampling took part in this cross-sectional survey study. By using a researcher-made questionnaire, information on SLPs’ familiarity with the term AAC and its methods, patients who can benefit from AAC methods, the kind of AAC method that could be used for each specific patient, and the effectiveness of each method were gathered. This research study was conducted at the rehabilitation clinics in Tehran, Iran. Results: The results of our study revealed that only 8.1% of the respondents were familiar with the concept of AAC, while 92.8% of SLPs had contact with patients who had communication problems (PWCP). Only 0.9% of SLPs were familiar with high-tech devices. In addition, 88.3% of the respondents were willing to have more educational opportunities in the field of AAC. Discussion: Iranian SLPs had little familiarity with AAC and the target population of these services. Overall, there appeared to be a lack of AAC expertise within the profession in Iran. Therefore, training these professionals, both theoretically and clinically, is essential.

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volume 19  issue 1

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publication date 2021-03

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