2017V - Asynchronous, Virtual Training for Parents of Children With ASD Requiring Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC)

Training communication partners to implement AAC strategies during interactions is effective in enhancing the language and communication skills of individuals requiring AAC (Douglas et al., 2017). More specifically, parents can be effectively trained to provide communicative supports to significantly enhance their child’s communication (Douglas et al., 2017). However, barriers exist that interfere with their ability to participate in traditional AAC training (Douglas et al., 2017). Virtual, asynchronous trainings reduce barriers associated with receiving AAC training (Wainer & Ingersoll 2014). The current study investigated the effects of a virtual, asynchronous training to teach parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) an AAC strategy. Effects of the training on both parent and child behaviors during interactions will be discussed.