Abstract of O. Hetzroni lecture

O. Hetzroni

AAC CONTINUING-EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR MULTIDISCIPLINARY

TEAMS – DOES IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

O. Hetzroni, A. Ne'eman

University of Haifa, Israel

The use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and

the need to employ AAC to enhance communication and increase

language gains has become a consensus in the field for several

decades. Yet, although AAC has been available for almost three

decades, its use remains limited and its promise seems to be

unfulfilled. Lack of knowledge and skills, as well as professional’s

attitude and myths regarding AAC, may lead to limited use of AAC

technology either by causing a total absence of intervention programs

or by inhibiting the implementation of any existing program. The

purpose of this study was to investigate whether an intensive program

provided to professional settings that serve individuals with physical

and developmental disabilities would increase knowledge and provide

intervention methods in AAC among those multi-disciplinary teams.

Participants included staff members that work with individuals with

physical and developmental disabilities most of which are AAC users.

The program included theoretical and practical information provided

through intensive workshops. Research results revealed that

continuing-education programs for the multi-disciplinary teams were

highly efficient. Results demonstrated that there was a significant

increase in theoretical and practical knowledge levels as well as a

significant decrease in myths relating to AAC, and a change in staffs'

attitudes towards AAC use. A follow-up interview revealed that the

program created an impact and a total shift in the professional practice

of many of the participants. The theoretical background and the key

principles of this program, as well as the method and results will be

discussed.