A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Face-to-Face Versus Remote Delivery of Low-Tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Nonspeaking Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

Purpose: Thirty percent of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) do not develop spoken language. To provide a means of communication for this subset of the population, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems are often utilized. Low-tech options have traditionally been delivered through the in-person modality. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, changes to service delivery models have been required. This randomized controlled trial was conducted in order to assess the efficacy of low-tech AAC delivered face-to-face versus remotely on communication outcomes in nonspeaking children with ASD.

Conclusions: Both participant groups demonstrated similar gains in AAC proficiency, number and type of nonspeaking acts, and number of spoken communication acts. Remote delivery of low-tech AAC treatment is a viable alternative to face-to-face instruction.

Comments

Online ahead of print, March 19, 2024

DOI

10.1044/2024_JSLHR-23-00390

PMID

38502053

Publication

Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research


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