Telepractice-Supported Augmentative and Alternative Communication Intervention: A Systematic Review

Children with autism spectrum disorder and/or with intellectual disabilities (IDD) who experience complex communication needs often benefit from augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention. Given shortages, access to professionals with expertise in AAC instruction can prove difficult. Telepractice may help to connect more specialists to children and practitioners or families who can implement AAC interventions with guidance. As both AAC technology and telehealth rapidly advance, the evidence base has struggled to keep pace. This systematic review answers questions related to the use of telepractice in intervention for AAC. Data to be reported were gleaned from a comprehensive meta-analysis on AAC and intervention for preschool and school-age children on the autism spectrum and/or with IDD. In the current systematic review, eight studies were identified, representing 22 participants, that met inclusion criteria. Synthesized findings across telepractice methodologies, participant characteristics, intervention parameters, including intervention intensity, and methodological quality are reported.