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Delivering Communication Strategy Training for People with Aphasia: What Is Current Clinical Practice?

Authors :
Beckley, Firle
Best, Wendy
Beeke, Suzanne
Source :
International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders. Mar-Apr 2017 52(2):197-213.
Publication Year :
2017

Abstract

Background: Communication strategy training (CST) is a recognized part of UK speech and language therapists' (SLTs) role when working with a person with aphasia. Multiple CST interventions have been published but, to date, there are no published studies exploring clinical practice in this area. Aims: To investigate UK SLTs' current CST practices. Methods & Procedures: Thirty-seven UK SLTs completed an online questionnaire, eight of whom attended a follow-up focus group. A clinical consistency scale was applied to the questionnaire data and tasks that were most consistently used were explored in the focus group and analyzed using a primarily deductive thematic data analysis approach. Outcomes & Results: Three key CST findings arose: (1) the rarity with which SLTs focus equally and explicitly on both communication partners' strategies; (2) SLTs' differing understandings of CST terminologies and concepts and underuse of formal assessment; and (3) the absence of video feedback. Conclusion & Implications: This study's survey findings suggest that conversation partners not only receive half the amount of CST given to people with aphasia but also play a more passive learning role when they are present. This is an interesting point to consider when the current evidence base contains stronger evidence for the effectiveness of conversation partner CST over other CST approaches, it being described as an effective method that may be maintained over time.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1368-2822
Volume :
52
Issue :
2
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
EJ1132373
Document Type :
Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.12265