POWR+ Intervention Results: An Online Communication Partner Training Program for Educational Teams

Abstract

Paraeducators are primary communication partners for children who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), but often have limited training. The POWR+ intervention is designed to help paraeducators support their student’s communication using AAC. Importantly, POWR+ includes training for supervising teachers, who help implement the intervention through observation, feedback, and coaching. In this study, we report the results from a multiple-probe single-case design study involving five U.S. teacher/paraeducator/child triads. Results indicate a functional relationship for two triads between the POWR+ intervention and the two primary outcomes: communication opportunities and AAC modeling. These triads implemented the POWR+ intervention with high fidelity. Results were mixed for the other triads with lower fidelity. Results highlight the efficacy of the POWR+ intervention when it is implemented with high fidelity but identifies a need for further adjustments to increase implementation fidelity, including additional resources for aspects outside the scope of the intervention such as behavioral support.

Keywords

augmentative and alternative communication paraeducator training communication partner training

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