GENDER DIFFERENCES IN PERFORMANCE MEASURES OF INDIVIDUALS WHO USE AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC)

摘要: Language samples from 10 adults using an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system were analyzed for gender differences in performance measures. Participants (5 female; 5 male) matched on device, access method, software, experience, age, education. Each participant was asked to describe the "cookie theft" picture Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination (BDAE; Goodglass & Kaplan, 1983). The language following two dependent variables: frequency of Semantic Compaction™ representation use average rate. A t-test equivalent non-parametric matched-pair Wilcoxon tests conduced both variables. effect size power also calculated used support results. There not a significant difference variable, however there large (d=1.11). analysis indicated sample consisting 9 pairs (4 more males 4 females) would increase 82%. Further research with increased participants may provide current finding relation Compaction™.No found between rates genders; presence female outlier concluded influence these conducted data excluding pair containing outlier. results genders rates. Overall, variables, majority higher measures than their paired participants. These observations need future addressing individuals who AAC. Clinical implications suggest that is needed determine if intervention strategies accommodate ability effectively device communicate as fast they are able. Caution needs be when interpreting applying this population due limitations (i.e., small lack control extraneous variable) study.