South African parents’ perceptions on their language choices and practices with regard to their children who make use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and are raised in multilingual environments

Abstract

Background: Parents of children who have complex communication needs and require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) are often faced with complex decisions about language choices and practices when their children are raised in multilingual contexts. Understanding parents’ perception in this matter can assist AAC service providers in supporting them better in this process. This study aimed to investigate South African parents’ perceptions on their language choices and practices with regard to their children aged 5-12 years who use AAC, and who are regularly exposed to multiple languages. Specifically, the study aimed to (i) to describe parents’ current language choices and practices with their children who use AAC; (ii) to describe the factors that parents consider to be influencing their language choices and practices with their children who use AAC; and (iii) to describe parents’ perceptions of the outcomes of their language choices and practices with their children who use AAC.

Methods: This study followed a qualitative design employing semi-structured interviews. Five parents, who fit the selection criteria, were recruited via an e-mail sent out to an e-mail list, to which they responded. The perceptions of these parents whose children use AAC and are raised in multilingual environments, were explored using open-ended interview questions, loosely guided by an interview guide. Data from the interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed using an inductive process to identify themes and subthemes.

Results: Four themes were identified, namely (a) language practices and choices; (b) influences on language practices and choices; (c) consequences of language practices and choices; and (d) feelings and beliefs. Parents were found to take many aspects into consideration when making language choices for their children in need of AAC. Factors mentioned related the child and to the environment. The child’s disability played a distinct role in parents’ decision making process, with an overriding perception that multilingualism would currently not be beneficial for the child; a perception seemingly reinforced by the advice of professionals.

Conclusion: The language choices and practices of parents of children in need of AAC growing up multilingually are influenced by a variety of factors. AAC service providers need to take cognizance of these factors in order to understand parents’ decision-making and support them in a way that is respectful of their wishes and ideals, as well as congruent with current research evidence.

Keywords: Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), bilingualism, complex communication needs (CCN), cultural diversity, heritage, language maintenance, linguistic diversity, multilingualism, parents, perspectives