A case study template to support experimental design in Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Assistive Technology. (January 2014) - Murray, Janice
Abstract Purpose: The field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication/Assistive Technology (AAC/AT) has an extensive literature of non-experimental case descriptions. This limits the generalisation of findings. The current study aimed to develop a template to contribute to single case experimental design specifically for the field of enquiry. Method: A qualitative case study methodology was adopted to construct and evaluate the content and structure of the case study template. Participants represented relevant stakeholder groups. Data were collected through template evaluations and focus groups. Data were analysed using Framework Analysis. Results: Across stakeholder groups, results produced a consensus on AAC/AT terminology, content and detail that may usefully inform single case experimental design. Conclusions: This is a complex area of rehabilitation that can best support its service users and service commissioners by using tools that facilitate collaborative working. The findings suggest that it is possible to produce a data collection tool that is acceptable to all stakeholder perspectives. Implications for Rehabilitation Augmentative and Alternative Communication/Assistive Technology should consider what types of data it is typically collecting and reporting. Augmentative and Alternative Communication/Assistive Technology could benefit from greater collaboration across stakeholder perspectives. Augmentative and Alternative Communication/Assistive Technology can contribute to effective single case experimental design methodologies. Adoption of case study guidelines may ensure consistent and sufficient data collection.