Multicultural Issues in Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Language

Abstract

Multicultural research in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an emerging area of intrigue and mystery. Most important, it is necessary in order to advance the field of AAC and to ensure the delivery of quality services to culturally and linguistically diversity AAC consumers and their families. This article addresses both the need for and the challenges in pursuing multicultural research in AAC. From an historical perspective this article discusses the emergence of multicultural research in AAC and concludes with guidelines for engaging in culturally relevant and culturally valid investigation critical to the identification of best practices.