Jamie Boster, PhD, CCC-SLP is conducting research is about the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices which are designed to support communication for individuals who are unable to rely on their natural speech to express themselves. AAC devices produce speech output to allow individuals with severe communication impairments to communicate their daily wants, needs, thoughts and opinions to others.
“This project is specifically looking at the profiles of children who use AAC devices and exploring how different models of care are used to develop their skills overtime,” says Boster. “It is necessary to learn more about how children who use AAC devices move through services to support their transitions between models of care which ultimately lead to successfully discharge from therapy. This project will aid in developing an understanding of profiles of children who use AAC which will inform future interventions.”
Boster plans to use her Spark Award funding to develop a REDCap database that allows for tracking of key variables that impact patients who use AAC. This database will be developed through a partnership with IT Research and Innovation at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Congratulations to Jamie Boster on receiving a Spark Award and using it to track how AAC devices are impacting children’s lives. If you are interested in applying for a Spark Award, applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until April 15, 2025, or until funds are exhausted. For more information, visit go.osu.edu/spark2025.
Julie Johnson, PharmD, is the Director and Principal Investigator at The Ohio State University Clinical and Translational Science Institute.