A scoping review of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) telepractice research (2002-2021)

Abstract

Background: The emerging practice of tele-AAC (telepractice in augmentative and alternative communication) is gaining attention. Mapping existing research is necessary to help guide clinicians, characterize knowledge gaps, and identify future research directions.

Objectives: This study aimed to describe tele-AAC studies' quantity, research characteristics (i.e., rationale, objectives, methodology), and investigated services (i.e., service type, provider, mode, etc.).

Methodology: The scoping review involved four phases (search, selection, extraction, synthesis) and covered published and unpublished studies disseminated between 2002-2021. Information sources searched include 12 databases or repositories and six conference websites. For selection and extraction, two independent reviewers reviewed each document and the team resolved discrepancies by consensus. The extracted data were coded and synthesized quantitatively and narratively.

Results: Thirty unique studies were included. The majority were published (n = 24; 80%), conducted in developed countries (n = 29; 97%), investigated service efficacy (n = 21; 70%) and/or stakeholders experiences (n = 18; 60%), used experimental designs (n = 19; 63%), and involved 2-3 AAC users (n = 10; 33%). The studies focused on training and/or coaching services (n = 19; 63%), high-tech AAC (n = 20; 67%), developmental disabilities (n = 20; 67%), and services provided by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) (n = 15; 50%) or AAC researchers (n = 10; 33%). Most services were synchronous (n = 20; 67%) and home-based (n = 20; 67%).

Conclusion: Telepractice offers multiple, innovative ways to maximize AAC access and outcomes. Although preliminary data are available, the investigated populations, settings, and service delivery modes can be more diverse. Future researchers are recommended to use less bias-prone designs.