Large-Group Application of Communication Partner Instruction With Stakeholders of Adults With Severe Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

This brief report describes a large-group application of the Communication Partner Instruction (CPI) training model as a means of improving the interactive skills of stakeholders who communicate with individuals with severe intellectual disabilities presenting complex communication and physical profiles. Findings support CPI for large stakeholder groups as study participants reported general satisfaction with both the training sequence and their use of skills learned 1 year post training.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Adults With Complex Communication Needs: A Review of Single-Case Research

“…For many adults with complex communication needs, their service providers are not only their primary caregivers but also their daily communication partners. It is critical that the service providers are prepared to be facilitators and advocates who value communication rights of adults and create multiple daily opportunities for meaningful participation and interactions (Ogletree et al, 2020). Specifically, adult agencies and service providers need to be aware that all behaviors are forms of communication and understand the importance of providing accessible and functional communication systems to promote symbolic communication.…”