A qualitative metasynthesis of the meaning of speech-generating devices for people with complex communication needs

Jacquie Ripat; Michele Verdonck; Carly Gacek; Shelly McNicol

doi:10.1080/07434618.2018.1513071

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A qualitative metasynthesis of the meaning of speech-generating devices for people with complex communication needs

Journal article

Peer reviewed

A qualitative metasynthesis of the meaning of speech-generating devices for people with complex communication needs

Jacquie Ripat, Michele Verdonck, Carly Gacek and Shelly McNicol

AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Vol.35(2), pp.69-79

2019

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/07434618.2018.1513071

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Abstract

speech-generating device

lived experience

augmentative and alternative communication

assistive communication

qualitative research

metasynthesis

The aim of this metasynthesis review of published qualitative research was to investigate the lived experience and meaning ascribed to speech-generating devices (SGDs) by people with complex communication needs and their familiar communication partners. Bibliographic databases were searched up to June 2016, and selected articles were assessed for their relevance to the research aim. The metasynthesis included 21 original articles and resulted in the identification of six main themes, each of which was comprised of two or more sub-themes that related to the experience of using SGD: It's an Inefficient Voice, It's Not a Natural Voice, Making the Most of This Voice, It's My Voice, It's More Than a Voice, and Having a Voice: Being Heard. The findings depict how use of an SGD is a complex process of understanding the limitations of the device, acknowledging expectations of society, using strategies to optimize communication, being aware of what an SGD represents, and using the SGD to enable social participation and a sense of empowerment.

Details

Title: A qualitative metasynthesis of the meaning of speech-generating devices for people with complex communication needs
Authors: Jacquie Ripat (Author) - University of Manitoba, Canada
Michele Verdonck (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
Carly Gacek (Author) - Autism Services of Saskatoon, Canada
Shelly McNicol (Author) - HEB Manitoba, Canada
Publication details: AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Vol.35(2), pp.69-79
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
Date published: 2019
DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2018.1513071
ISSN: 0743-4618
Organisation Unit: School of Health; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Occupational Therapy; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99451115402621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration; International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Audiology & Speech-language Pathology; Rehabilitation

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Source: InCites