The Effect of Educational Staff Training on Student Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices

Principal Investigator:
Danielle Mauro

Faculty Advisor:
James McLaughlin

Abstract:
One of the most challenging aspects for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder is the ability to communicate. Many people who have ASD are non-verbal or have limited verbal language skills. This communication barrier affects a person's ability to function socially and academically. The purpose of this study is to determine teachers and educational professionals experience with and perspective on the use of AAC devices for students with ASD, their level of training during preservice and inservice, their ability to assess students for AAC devices, their confidence facilitating the use of such devices with students, and their experiences on the effectiveness of AAC in the classroom. It is important because with the data collected in this study it is hoped that further information will be gathered related to the effectiveness of AAC usage for students with ASD based on the level or preservice and inservice training of teachers and educational professionals. In addition, the larger educational community may seek to improve preservice and inservice training in order to support the needs of staff who work with Autistic students who use AAC devices.