Evaluating the Efficacy of Grid-Based and VSD-Based AAC Intervention in Indian AAC Users Using the Fiats-AAC Scale

Abstract

This study focused on assessing the effectiveness of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) interventions among Indian users by comparing two types of aided communication systems Grid-Based AAC (AVAZ) and Visual Scene Display (VSD) through the FIATS-AAC scale. A repeated measures experimental design was employed with 10 children with complex communication needs (CCN), divided into two intervention groups. Pre-, mid-, and post-intervention assessments were conducted across 13 domains reflecting both child and family functioning. Statistical analysis were done using Friedman’s test which had showed domain-wise progress, with significant improvements in domains like “Social Versatility” and “Family Roles” for the children using Grid based device, and in “Social Versatility” and “Contentment” for those using VSD. The evaluation was done using the percentage change from pre- to post-intervention which had shown that Grid based group had performed better in 8 out of 13 domains, specifically the ones demanding vocabulary and symbol-based communication. In contrast, VSD was found to be better in contexts where socially embedded communication was required. These show how the significance of tailoring the AAC systems for the individuals communication needs and objectives help the child in communication. The results also show us the importance of using culturally relevant AAC tools and about the importance of the role of caregiver engagement in improving the success of interventions.