Perceptions of AAC: An Ethnographic Investigation of Mexican-American Families

Abstract

Ethnographic methodologies were used to describe and interpret the experiences of four Mexican-American families of individuals with complex communication needs regarding the impact of using AAC devices. Findings suggest that the AAC devices were not perceived by family members to be useful for interactions with their children. Additionally, family members perceived that the fluency and complexity of the conversations with their children were not improved with the use of an AAC device because of language barriers and cultural preferences for speed and intimacy. All of the participating families valued and strongly supported the use of the device for educational purposes and in educational environments.

• Family
• Mexican-American
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• Ethnography