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No AccessSIG 12 Augmentative and Alternative CommunicationArticle1 Jan 2018

Bilingualism, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, and Equity: Making a Case for People With Complex Communication Needs

    https://doi.org/10.1044/persp3.SIG12.138

    Abstract

    Purpose

    The evidence currently available to guide best practice in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in bilinguals is sparse. Therefore, this article considers the established research in bilingualism in the typically developing population and those with speech-language disorders to propose guidelines for best practice in bilingual AAC. The unique barriers to communication experienced by this population and their implications are discussed.

    Conclusions

    Research from established bilingual populations indicates that people with complex communication needs (CCN) can become bilingual at no cost to their overall development and suggests that the practice of forced monolingualism may in fact cause harm. Despite this, bilingualism appears poorly realized in people with CCN from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Inequitable access to AAC and dual language proficiency fueled by common myths about disability, language learning, and bilingualism likely contributes to disparate linguistic outcomes in this population. These findings challenge the traditional role of speech-language pathologists as clinicians by calling for acts of advocacy and social change.

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