Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Communication Disorders and Occupational Therapy

Advisor/Mentor

Dr. Christine Holyfield

Abstract

This study examined U.S.-based speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) perceptions of bilingual/multilingual AAC service provision and the barriers SLPs encounter to determine if SLP beliefs align with practices. An anonymous survey was distributed to 307 ASHA-certified SLPs, resulting in 21 completed responses. The survey consisted of questions that gathered information on participant demographics, caseload, perceptions/beliefs, and practices, with optional open-ended questions for additional context. SLPs in the participant sample strongly believed that AAC intervention should occur in all the languages spoken by the client. Despite this belief, they struggled to implement it due to barriers. Key barriers identified included SLP language limitations, lack of interpreter availability, insufficient multilingual AAC technology, and challenges with caregiver collaboration. The disparities in care are the result of systemic barriers, not a lack of SLP understanding of the importance of multilingual support for their clients. These findings demonstrate an urgent need for change, including in-service training opportunities that prioritize bilingualism, increased access to interpreting services, and multilingual AAC technology development.

Keywords

speech-language pathologist; AAC; bilingual; multilingual

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