JENNIFER WIEGERT, M.A., CCC-R-SLP, is a registered speech-language pathologist and owner of Chickadee AAC Communication Services - a private practice specializing in supporting individuals with complex communica- tion needs along with their team members, including parents and caregivers, school and home teams. She has practiced in the school setting for 25 years and continues to provide support to students and staff as a member of the Surrey School District AAC team. She also co-wrote and teaches an AAC curriculum for educational assistant students. Working directly with complex communicators is Jennifer’s favourite role as a private practitioner. CORINNA DUFFITT, M.Sc., R-SLP, is originally from Wabush, Newfoundland and Labrador and pursued her Master’s Degree at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. Corinna spent 24 years in the public school system where she specialized in supporting AAC communicators. In 2018, she joined with Jennifer Wiegert to form Chickadee AAC Communication Services, and in 2022 she established AAC in the Grove Communication Services Ltd., and remains committed to supporting AAC users and their families.
Successful strategies for teaching and ongoing training for communication partners are vital components in the effective implementation of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. It is essential to employ flexible training approaches that cater to diverse learning environments and participant needs. One such strategy involves providing hands-on training opportunities across different contexts, including professional development days, group training sessions, one-on-one consultations, or virtual workshops. This
fosters a dynamic learning environment where participants can engage meaningfully with the resources and AAC devices to develop practical skills. Additionally, incorporating ongoing training ensures that communication partners remain updated on best practices and are able to problem solve unique situations, ultimately enhancing communication outcomes for AAC communicators.
This finding reinforces the need for explicit communication partner training as a means to reduce device abandonment.
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