Mothers’ Perspectives and Experiences of Speech Generating Devices

Abstract

Families play a critical role in the lives of students who use a speech generating device (SGD). This study address (a) mothers' experiences of having a child who uses a SGD, (b) their perception of the effectiveness of a SGD(s), (c) their perceived impacts of SGDs on their family dynamics, and (d) their perception of decision making process. Data were collected through surveys and individual phone interviews. The results show the mothers' needs for continued support and training in programming and integration of the technology in children's daily lives. Implications for teacher preparation programs are presented.