Importance of your research and work

Engaging in research in the CCI SLP program is a mandatory graduation requirement because it is important for us as future speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to learn how to conduct diagnostic evaluations and plan treatment sessions, and because research experience is vital to being a well-rounded clinician. I have been collaborating with two other master’s students in addition to Assistant Professor Michelle Therrien, Ph.D. We recruited individuals with disabilities via social media who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. The purpose of the study is to observe how adults who use AAC define and describe friendship, in addition to identifying certain intrinsic and extrinsic factors that play a role in successful friendship development and maintenance. The participants partook in an online interview and focus group from April 2017 to July 2017. I have been a part of the research team since October 2016, and we have been focused on getting organized, conducting literature reviews, and drafting additional materials for the study. We are currently in the process of interpreting and analyzing the findings.

Studies like these are important not just to the field of speech-language pathology but also for our community to understand that communication is multifaceted. Communication is what drives our society to success. I think studies like these contribute clinically to SLPs and their clients. SLPs can incorporate intervention targeting social communication with individuals who use AAC in addition to conducting speech and language therapy. Speech-language pathology is an ever-growing field, and I am so thrilled to be a part of it.