Utilising collaborative learning strategies with children who use AAC: A pilot online training program for speech-language pathologists

Abstract

PurposeChildren who utilise augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) have difficulty participating in interactions with peers and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) lack training in the development of activities to specifically target participation. The purpose of the current study was to explore a pilot online training program designed to provide information about the development of collaborative learning (CL) activities to support participation.MethodA single-subject, multiple baseline across six participants in an initial group and a replication group was completed to assess the number of CL elements included in probe responses during baseline, intervention, and maintenance phases.ResultSLPs were highly accurate in their ability to answer multiple choice questions about CL elements (80%–90%); however, the overall effect of the intervention was weak with a Tau-U of 0.48 for the initial group and 0.53 for the replication group.ConclusionSLPs can begin to develop skills in designing CL activities for children who utilise AAC as a means to support participation and foster social interaction. Future research is necessary to design efficient and effective online training for SLPs.