JSET

JSET Articles Index

Volume 21 Number 1

The Influence of AAC Device Type, Dynamic vs. Static Screen, on Peer Attitudes
Karen Dudek, Ann R. Beck, and James R. Thompson
Illinois State University

Abstract

This study examined how children’s attitudes toward a peer who used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) were influenced by type of AAC device accessed by the child for communication. Specifically, the influence of dynamic screens vs. static screens was investigated. Two videotapes were created. In one a child used a dynamic screen voice output AAC device to communicate, and in the other the same child used a static screen voice output AAC device. Children in grades 3 and 5 viewed either the dynamic screen or the static screen videotape. Gender was as evenly distributed between groups as possible. After viewing the videotape, children completed a measure of self-reported attitudes toward children who use AAC. Results indicated effects for gender only. No main effect was found for device type. The two-way interactions of grade x device type and of gender x device type were not statistically significant. The results are discussed along with clinical implications.

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