Date of Award

Spring 3-6-2012

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Mary Ann Romski

Second Advisor

Dr. Rose Sevcik

Third Advisor

Dr. Christopher Henrich

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Julie Washington

Abstract

This study described the effect of a non-augmented (Spoken Communication, SC) and two augmented language interventions (Augmented Communication-Input, AC-I or Augmented Communication-Output, AC-O) on the upper-body, gross and fine motor skills of toddlers at the onset and conclusion of the intervention. The data presented are from a longitudinal study by Romski, Sevcik, Adamson, Cheslock, Smith, Barker, & Bakeman (2010). Three standardized assessments and five observational measures examined the participants' motor skills used to activate the speech generating device (SGD), language abilities and outcomes. The AC-O intervention decreased physical prompting, increased error-free symbol activations, and increased developmentally appropriate gross and fine motor use. An augmented intervention that utilizes a SGD may facilitate both language and motor development through the combination of the communicative goals and increased motor learning opportunities when accessing the SGD device.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/2760732

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