Speech-language pathologists' perspectives on augmentative and alternative communication assessment and intervention across language domains: A crosslinguistic replication study.

Abstract

The objective of this replication study was to compare the perspectives of Hebrew-speaking speech-language pathologists (SLPs) on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) assessment and intervention in each of the five language domains (semantics, pragmatics, phonology, morphology, and syntax) with those previously reported for English-speaking SLPs. Specifically, the comparison aimed to understand AAC service delivery patterns in different linguistic contexts. Using an anonymous online survey, the study collected responses from 167 Hebrew-speaking SLPs regarding preprofessional training, clinical practices, resource adequacy and continuing education interests related to AAC assessment and intervention in each language domain. Global agreement was found among Hebrew-speaking and those previously reported for English-speaking SLPs on the importance of all language domains for people who use AAC (PWUAAC) and their interest in professional development. In ratings of preprofessional training, clinical practice, and resource adequacy, pragmatics and semantics had consistently higher percentages of positive responses in both groups, followed by syntax, while morphology and phonology received fewest. Fewer Hebrew-speaking as compared to English-speaking SLPs rated morphology/phonology skills as important for PWUAAC and reported providing clinical services in each language domain. However, more Hebrew-speaking SLPs rated their resources and preprofessional training as adequate in semantics, pragmatics, syntax, and phonology. These findings suggest that while shared AAC service delivery patterns exist in different linguistic contexts (e.g., Hebrew, English) across language domains, there is a need for development and validation of language-specific (e.g., Hebrew) resources, particularly in morphology and phonology. Factors influencing clinical decision-making, including client age, preferences, disabilities, and resource availability, are also discussed.