Perspectives From General Education Teachers, Students and Their Parents: Including Students With Robust Communication Devices in General Education Classrooms

Abstract

Abstract Teachers face a number of challenges with regard to including students, but especially when including those who have complex communication needs and use speech-generating devices (SGDs). Parents are interested in collaborating with teachers, but may find themselves with differing opinions than school and staff. Students using SGDs want to be part of the class, not just physically in the classroom. Finding ways to communicate and work together is critical to overcoming these challenges and facilitating inclusion. In this process, it is important to consider the perspectives of the general education teacher, the parent of the student using the SGD, classmates, and, most important, the student using the SGD.