Symbols for all – Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Children with Complex Communication Needs. International Caregiver Survey
What's the study about?
This study is led by Principal Investigator Professor Toby M. Long (Georgetown University) and conducted by Serena Pessolano, Visiting Scholar (Sponsored University Associate). It invites parents or primary caregivers (18 years or older) of children with complex communication needs to participate in an anonymous online survey.
The study, titled “Symbols for all – Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Children with Complex Communication Needs. International Caregiver Survey,” explores communication experiences and the use of AAC across different contexts.
Participation is anonymous and the survey takes approximately 15–20 minutes to complete. The optional follow-up interview is not anonymous but will remain confidential. If participants choose to be contacted for a 20–30 minute follow-up interview, their contact information will be collected through a separate form, will not be linked to their survey responses, and will be deleted after the interview is completed or if they decide not to participate.
The goal of the study is to better understand AAC use across contexts and contribute to improving communication support for children and their families.
Who can participate?
You are eligible to participate if you are 18 years or older and a parent or primary caregiver of a child with complex communication needs. The child may or may not currently use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
What will participants be doing?
If you agree to participate, you will complete an online survey about your child’s communication profile, AAC use (if applicable), communication contexts (home, school, therapy, community), perceived benefits, challenges, and barriers related to the use or potential use of AAC systems, and your experience as a caregiver. The survey will take approximately 15–20 minutes.
At the end of the survey, you will have the option to participate in a separate follow-up interview. If you choose to do so, you will be redirected to a different form where you may choose to provide your email address. This contact information will be used solely for the purpose of scheduling the interview, will be stored separately from your survey responses, and will not be linked to your answers. Participation in the follow-up interview is completely voluntary.
Why is this important?
There are no direct benefits to participants. However, the information collected may contribute to improving Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools and supports for children with complex communication needs and their families. The study aims to better understand how AAC is used across contexts and to support the development of more accessible and effective communication systems.