ERIC Number: EJ868770
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Nov
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1058-0360
EISSN: N/A
Validation of an Inventory of Best Practices in the Provision of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Services to Students with Severe Disabilities in General Education Classrooms
Calculator, Stephen N.; Black, Tibbany
American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, v18 n4 p329-342 Nov 2009
Purpose: To compile and then validate a set of evidence-based best practices related to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and its role in fostering the inclusion of students with severe disabilities in general education classrooms and other inclusive settings. Method: A comprehensive review of the literature pertaining to AAC and inclusive education for students with severe disabilities in inclusive classrooms resulted in an inventory of possible best practices. Reliability testing was conducted to verify levels of evidence assigned to each source and corresponding practice. Practices were reviewed and validated by a panel of 8 experts. Statistical analysis revealed a high level of internal consistency across items composing the inventory. Results: An inventory of 91 practices, each assigned to 1 of 8 predetermined categories, was uncovered. Themes arising in experts' comments related to items in the inventory are discussed. Conclusions: Possible uses of the inventory are discussed along with suggestions for future research. (Contains 1 table.)
Descriptors: Inclusive Schools, General Education, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Disabilities, Statistical Analysis, Best Practices, Evaluation, Reliability, Allied Health Personnel, Speech Language Pathology, Cooperation, Intervention, Mental Retardation, Developmental Disabilities
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). 10801 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. Tel: 800-638-8255; Fax: 301-571-0457; e-mail: subscribe@asha.org; Web site: http://ajslp.asha.org
Publication Type: Information Analyses; Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A