Graduate Program
Communication Disorders and Sciences
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2012
Thesis Director
Tena McNamara
Thesis Committee Member
Trina Becker
Thesis Committee Member
Angela Anthony
Abstract
The use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices is important for individuals whose natural speech is inadequate for communication. Research conducted to make improvements to AAC devices has included exploring the effectiveness of color-coding symbols, linguistically based arrangement of symbols, and intelligibility of the devices. However, little attention has been given to the volume adequacy of AAC devices in a variety of educational settings. It is hypothesized that volume levels of AAC devices are often inappropriate for adequate communication when compared to noise levels in the classroom. The present study measured the volume output level of AAC devices compared with background noise levels at strategic distances of three feet ( one-on-one setting), six feet ( comfortable conversation distance), and twelve feet (teacher instruction). Signal-to-noise levels were compared for seven individuals in the settings in which each student actively participated using their device. Additionally, this study investigated the compensatory strategies related to inadequacies of volume output levels for AAC devices through qualitative observation and field notes. The results of the present study indicated that the AAC devices of all seven children were not set at adequate levels for effective communication in the classroom setting. It was also determined that the participants commonly used several strategies to compensate for poor signal-to-noise ratios. These included repetition, gestural or tactile cues, and timing speech to quiet moments to improve audition of the devices to listeners. In addition, the participants' communication partners asked for repetition and angled the AAC devices to both see and hear the intended message.
Recommended Citation
Lorenz, Hope Elizabeth, "Signal-to-noise ratio of augmentative and alternative communication devices across educational settings" (2012). Masters Theses. 755.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/755
