Date Approved

5-3-2001

Embargo Period

6-6-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Learning Disabilities

Department

Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education

College

College of Education

Advisor

Urban, Stanley

Subject(s)

Apraxia; Speech therapy for children; Speech therapy--Instruments

Disciplines

Disability and Equity in Education

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of using a sophisticated electronic voice output augmentative communication device with an eight-year-old male who has been diagnosed with Developmental Apraxia of Speech. The design of this research was a case study. Data collection measured the subject's academic, language, and social status before and after implementation of the augmentative communication device. Measures included standardized and criterion-referenced tests, adaptive behavior rating scales, structured observations, anecdotal data, interviews, and review of school records. Findings indicated the subject was able to participate in several assessments during the post-treatment condition that could not be administered prior to augmentative communication usage. Test results showed an improved rate of academic performance. Measures also indicated improved oral speech in terms of variety and number of sounds and words produced, increased volume, and improved fluency. School and parental data show improved social interaction with peers and family members. Parental and school personnel views of the subject's communicative competence changed over the course of the study. Prior to using augmentative communication the subject was seen as limited in the ability to adequately communicate with others. With the augmentative device, interaction and expressive communication substantially improved.

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