Toward greater involvement of youth with complex communication needs in the selection of augmentative and alternative communication devices.

The study aim was to examine the measurement properties of the Youth Evaluation of Products Scale for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (YEP-AAC) as a means to understand the product attitudes of youth toward their AAC devices. In study 1, four males and two females between the ages of 8 and 17 years (median age = 14 years) participated in face-to-face interviews. A researcher administered the YEP-AAC and then asked youths to explain the rationale for their item ratings.

Responsiveness of a parent-reported outcome measure to evaluate AAC interventions for children and youth with complex communication needs.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions requires reliable measures that are responsive to change. The aim of this study was to explore the potential of the Family Impact of Assistive Technology Scale for AAC (FIATS-AAC) to detect functional change in children and youth with AAC needs, aged 3-17 years, and their families, 6 and 12 weeks after receiving a graphic-based, speech-generating device (SGD). Parents whose children were awaiting a SGD as part of their regular AAC service participated in the study.

A listening skill educational intervention for pediatric rehabilitation clinicians: A mixed-methods pilot study.

Objective: To prepare for an RCT by examining the effects of an educational intervention on the listening skills of pediatric rehabilitation clinicians, piloting study procedures, and investigating participants' learning experiences.

Methods: Six experienced clinicians received the intervention, consisting of video simulations and solution-focused coaching regarding personal listening goals. Self- and observer-rated measures of listening skill were completed and qualitative information was gathered in interviews and a member checking session.

Developing authentic clinical simulations for effective listening and communication in pediatric rehabilitation service delivery.

Purpose: To describe the creation and validation of six simulations concerned with effective listening and interpersonal communication in pediatric rehabilitation.

Methods And Findings: The simulations involved clinicians from various disciplines, were based on clinical scenarios related to client issues, and reflected core aspects of listening/communication. Each simulation had a key learning objective, thus focusing clinicians on specific listening skills.

Development of a measure to assess effective listening and interactive communication skills in the delivery of children's rehabilitation services.

Purpose: Therapists' listening and communication skills are fundamental to the delivery of children's rehabilitation services but few measures comprehensively assess these skills. The 24-item Effective Listening and Interactive Communication Scale (ELICS) was developed to reflect a multifaceted conceptualization based on evidence in the literature.

Method: Data from 41 pediatric rehabilitation therapists (occupational, physical, speech-language, recreation, and behavioural therapists; psychologists and social workers) were used to determine the factor structure, internal consistency, and construct validity of the subscales.

Teamwork in AAC: examining clinical perceptions.

This study examines Prescription Review (PR), a model of teamwork practiced in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) centres in Ontario, Canada. PR is a process in which teams make decisions about AAC system recommendations. For this study, 92 out of 141 professionals working on AAC teams completed questionnaires measuring the benefits of PR.

Reliability of speech generating devices: a 5-year review.

Individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) depend on technology to meet their daily needs and form relationships. Speech generating devices (SGDs) are integral components of communication systems. Reliability of SGDs is critical for effective use in everyday life.

Communication access in the library for individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication.

Libraries for All is a community-based program that aims to enhance communication access to the library for individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), by providing resources and instruction. The goals are to (a) provide communication boards, (b) complete facilitator training, and (c) promote the program. To accomplish these goals, four communication boards were created and provided to all public libraries in London, Ontario.

Measuring the quality of transdisciplinary teams.

The Team Decision Making Questionnaire (TDMQ) demonstrated internal consistency, stability over time, and construct validity. Internal consistencies were excellent and Cronbach's Alphas (N = 102) for the 4 components ranged from 0.83 to 0.

AAC and community partnerships: the participation path to community inclusion.

The Life Needs Model (LNM) of service delivery emphasizes the importance of community participation in children's development and quality of life. This article is a case illustration of two community partnership programs based on the LNM. StoryTime and Dress Up and Drama provide participation opportunities in the community for children who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).