Document Type
Research Paper
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study is to collect the perspectives of bilingual parents of AAC users regarding devices and services, thus advocating for better AAC support for bilingual users and their families. Simultaneously, this study will aim to inform speech-language pathologists and guide their practice when working with bilingual AAC users and their families. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted to collect participants' perspectives in a virtual interview format over a 30-minute to 1-hour Zoom call. A flyer of the study’s details was circulated over social media to recruit participants, who were screened over email and a 15- to 30-minute Zoom call and signed the informed consent form before the interview. This study had eight participants (P1, P2, P3, etc.). Results: The following themes were found in this study: Embracing Uncertainty, Problem-Solving, Positive Transformation, Gender Roles in AAC Device Use, Balancing Two Languages, and The Role of Friendship in AAC Awareness. Discussion: This study reveals that all the participants experienced positive changes in their children’s language development, as well as found ways to maintain their native language within the household. Despite the challenges the participants faced when implementing AAC, they have shown a determination to use their devices consistently. This study also reveals that bilingual systems should be more equitable and user-friendly, as well as the tendency for mothers to bear more responsibility for AAC usage.
Recommended Citation
Hamami, Reem, "Bilingual families' perspectives on augmentative and alternative communication devices" (2025). Brehm Scholars Research. 11.
https://commons.emich.edu/brehm/11
