Music therapy and communication aids for autism spectrum disorder

Title: A survey of the use of aided augmentative and alternative communication during music therapy sessions with persons with autism spectrum disorders.

Author: Gadberry, Anita L.

Publication title: Journal of Music Therapy, 48(1)

Year: 2011

pp.74-89

Document URL: http://remote.libproxy.wlu.ca/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/874900183?accountid=15090

Abstract:

Research indicates that as many as 50% of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) will not develop adequate speech to meet their communication needs (Noens & van Berckelaer-Onnes, 2004). Thus, alternate means of communication such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) are necessary. Though many music therapists work with clients with ASD, there is a lack of research regarding music therapists’ use of aided AAC. This study sought to obtain information from music therapists who work with persons with ASD via a survey to answer the following questions: (a) how many music therapists are using aided AAC in their sessions, (b) how they are using aided AAC, and (c) what type of training they have had regarding AAC systems. To assess the research questions, the author created an electronic survey. Upon distribution, the survey response rate was 49.6%. Results indicated that only 14.6% of respondents utilize aided AAC with all of their clients who use aided AAC outside of music therapy. The most common form of aided input used by music therapists in their sessions with clients with ASD is a picture schedule. Only 40% of respondents have additional training in aided AAC. Chi square tests revealed significant relationships among many of the variables: use of aided AAC and additional training, use and treatment setting, literacy promotion and additional training, modeling and additional training, referral for AAC systems and length of work with clients with ASD, referral and additional training. Results are discussed in relation to current communication literature. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)(journal abstract)