Communication of nonverbal students with severe and multiple disabilities: A systematic scoping review [비구어 중도중복장애 학생의 의사소통에 대한 범위연구]

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to review literature in both South Korea and other countries on the communication of nonverbal students with severe and multiple disabilities to suggest directions for future research. Method: Using the scoping study method as one type of literature review, a total of 72 studies were selected and analyzed in terms of participants, study designs, data collection methods, and research themes. Results: The findings suggested that while students with severe autistic spectrum disorders and severe intellectual disabilities took part in the majority of studies, there is international research that studied students with visual/hearing and multiple disabilities. Second, most studies employed single-case research designs and a small number of studies using qualitative research designs or mixed-method designs. Third, targeted studies were categorized into three themes: (1) characteristics of nonverbal students with severe and multiple disabilities, (2) factors influencing communication of nonverbal students with severe and multiple disabilities, and (3) communication intervention. Conclusion: Based on the findings, implications for future research were discussed. © 2020 Seorim. All rights reserved.