Description
Book Synopsis Ten autistic self-advocates share their experiences with alternative forms of communication such as rapid prompting method (RPM) and facilitated communication (FC), both highly controversial. Their narratives document the complexities that autistic individuals navigate--in both educational and community settings--when choosing to use approaches that utilize letter boards and keyboards. While the controversies remain--RPM requires further scientific study, and FC is subject to criticism about confirmation bias--these individuals share powerful stories in the context of aiming for disability rights. The book concludes with a chapter about best practices for educators, particularly for schools and colleges that have students who use these communication methods.
Trade ReviewIn
Communication Alternatives in Autism, Dr. Edlyn Peña addresses one of the most controversial topics in research and education for non-speaking communicators and those with limited speech--the authenticity of communication through typing and spelling. It is well known that a small group of critics have dominated discourse disputing the validity of such communication, based on a dated and flawed body of research, and by ignoring more recent research with contrary findings, resulting in misguided efforts to shut down further discussion and research when there continues to be more questions than answers. Dr. Peña challenges such efforts through a scholarly review of evidence, her own personal experiences as a parent and by inviting non-speaking communicators to share their thoughts and experiences. For those who believe ongoing discourse should not be shut down, and especially for those who already think the die is cast, this important work is a significant step forward in understanding why we must intensify our efforts to understand and give voice to those who cannot speak."—Barry M. Prizant, Ph.D., CC-SLP, Brown University, author of
Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism"
Communication Alternatives in Autism is a book that has been needed for a long time. It gives voice to the thoughts and humanity of individuals with autism who use various means to communicate via the written word. The experience and knowledge of Dr. Edlyn Peña who is both a parent and a scholar shines through to help us better understand the lives and journey of a remarkable group of authors. Enjoy!"—Anne M. Donnellan, professor emerita, University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of San Diego.
