Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/923133

OpenURL Link
Title
Where are teachers' voices?: a research agenda to enhance the communicative interactions of students with multiple and severe disabilities at school
Author/Creator
De Bortoli, Tania;  Arthur-Kelly, Michael;  Mathisen, Bernice;  Foreman, Philip;  Balandin, Susan
Institution
The University of Newcastle. Faculty of Education & Arts, School of Education
Description
Purpose: Despite the importance of communication for educational participation, researchers have observed low frequencies of communication between teachers and students with multiple and severe disabilities (MSD). Little is known about reasons for these low frequencies. This article explores the literature to develop a new research agenda for approaching this issue. Method: Selected studies were reviewed, including qualitative studies involving teachers of students who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in mainstream classrooms. Results: Teachers identified a broad range of issues that influence their ability to educate students who use AAC or demonstrate other significant communication needs. These factors include teachers' attitudes, perceptions and beliefs and broader contextual factors, such as administrative support at the institutional level. However, to date, there has been little research with teachers of students with MSD about factors influencing communication with their students. Conclusions: A broad range of potential factors may impact upon teachers' ability to communicate with their students. Further research involving teachers of students with MSD is needed to explore the range of potential factors influencing low frequencies of communication. This research may contribute to an understanding of how best to support teachers to enhance communication access for students with MSD in the classroom.
Relation
Disability and Rehabilitation Vol. 32, Issue 13, p. 1059-1072
Publisher Link
http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/09638280903410730
Date
2010
Publisher
Informa Healthcare
Keyword(s)
communication;  multiple and severe disabilities;  students;  school
Resource Type
journal article
Identifier
http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/923133
Identifier
ISSN:0963-8288
Reviewed
Reviewed
12 Visitors 13 Hits 0 Downloads
Save/E-mail Citation
Citation Format
E-mail Address
Subject
"Disability and Rehabilitation"
 
OR