Environmental factors influencing choice of spelling and graphic symbols in communicative interactions of adolescents who use communication aids.

This exploratory interpretative qualitative study aimed to investigate environmental factors influencing "in the moment" decisions about use of graphic symbols or spelling in face-to-face communicative interactions, by adolescents who use communication aids and are learning how to spell. The participants were six adolescents (who used speech generating devices) and their mothers. Data collection consisted of seven to eight communicative interactions between adolescents and their mothers and follow up interviews with the participants.

Environmental factors contributing to using spelling in communication: Perceptions of literate aided communicators.

The aim of this interpretive qualitative study was to explore how environmental factors influence the transition from relying solely on graphic symbols to using spelling in face-to-face communicative interactions, from the perspective of literate adults with speech and motor impairments who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Fourteen adults either chose to submit a written story with weekly email follow-up, took part in interviews conducted via Zoom, or chose to communicate solely by email. Researchers analyzed data using Charmaz's (2014) constructivist grounded theory approach.

Models and frameworks for guiding assessment for aided Augmentative and Alternative communication (AAC): a scoping review.

Background: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports individuals with complex communication needs. Conceptual models and frameworks exist to evaluate, implement, and assess the needs of persons with communication disabilities, however, it is unknown which models were grounded in previous evidence-based research.

Objective: What are the models and frameworks grounded in empirical or conceptual research that enable communication outcomes for persons who require aided AAC systems?

Eligibility Criteria: The study had to be the original publication of a defined model or framework that included aided AAC and the model had to be developed through research, either conceptual or empirical.

Therapy services for children and youth living in rural areas of high-income countries: a scoping review.

Purpose: To identify and describe therapeutic services provided to children and youth with disabilities living in rural areas of mid- and high-income countries and to summarize the benefits, positive outcomes, and challenges related to these services.

Methods: This scoping review involved a systematic search of four academic electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Psych INFO, using a combination of subject headings and keywords related to (1) child disabilities; (2) rehabilitation: occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physiotherapists, audiologists, and recreation therapists; (3) multidisciplinary care team; (4) rural areas. Charting involved an iterative process whereby the full text articles meeting the inclusion criteria were abstracted using the charting form by two independent reviewers.