[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Adam Barrett
Sent: 29 May 2012 10:45
To: CM AAC Forum
Subject: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Can anyone enlighten me who is on this 'ad hoc' committee, for example
anyone who uses FC?
Will they be interviewing or meeting any individuals who use FC before
they release their position statement?
If the outcome of the position statement is negative towards FC will
this effect and discredit the membership of individuals who use FC to
CM/ISAAC?
Hoping for some answers,
Adam Barrett
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I don't have the answer to that Dave, but in answer to Adam's question there is a PDF on the FC Position process on ISAAC News page http://www.isaac-online.org/english/news Page one is the announcement and page two is about who, how and what can be contributed, and when by.
The committee is secret, although it has been said that Ralph Schlosser is part of it? People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated Communication."
A private Facebook group of 700 (so far) FC users, families, facilitators and allies of FC came together over the last week in response to the recent attack on FC, Anne McDonald and Rosemary Crossley in the Australian press. The ISAAC position statement is a hot topic and I will invite you and anyone here to join if you are interested - just friend me on FB.
Terry
________________________________ From: "Mitchell, Dave (ChS-ISSS)" <dmitch...@worcestershire.gov.uk> To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 11:28 Subject: RE: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Will the points made on this forum be shared with ISAAC?
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Adam Barrett Sent: 29 May 2012 10:45 To: CM AAC Forum Subject: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Can anyone enlighten me who is on this 'ad hoc' committee, for example anyone who uses FC?
Will they be interviewing or meeting any individuals who use FC before they release their position statement?
If the outcome of the position statement is negative towards FC will this effect and discredit the membership of individuals who use FC to CM/ISAAC?
Hoping for some answers,
Adam Barrett
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
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I missed a word from the sentence: "People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output generated..."
People can submit to the review, BUT "descriptive analyses of output generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated Communication."
This is the way of evidence-based research, it puts tight constraints on who can submit.
________________________________ From: Terry Gibson <terryjohnm...@yahoo.co.uk> To: "cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com" <cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com> Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 14:28 Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
I don't have the answer to that Dave, but in answer to Adam's question there is a PDF on the FC Position process on ISAAC News page http://www.isaac-online.org/english/news Page one is the announcement and page two is about who, how and what can be contributed, and when by.
The committee is secret, although it has been said that Ralph Schlosser is part of it? People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated Communication."
A private Facebook group of 700 (so far) FC users, families, facilitators and allies of FC came together over the last week in response to the recent attack on FC, Anne McDonald and Rosemary Crossley in the Australian press. The ISAAC position statement is a hot topic and I will invite you and anyone here to join if you are interested - just friend me on FB.
Terry
________________________________ From: "Mitchell, Dave (ChS-ISSS)" <dmitch...@worcestershire.gov.uk> To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 11:28 Subject: RE: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Will the points made on this forum be shared with ISAAC?
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Adam Barrett Sent: 29 May 2012 10:45 To: CM AAC Forum Subject: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Can anyone enlighten me who is on this 'ad hoc' committee, for example anyone who uses FC?
Will they be interviewing or meeting any individuals who use FC before they release their position statement?
If the outcome of the position statement is negative towards FC will this effect and discredit the membership of individuals who use FC to CM/ISAAC?
Hoping for some answers,
Adam Barrett
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
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Monitoring of Email Worcestershire County Council may monitor traffic data and the content of email for lawful business purposes.
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-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
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From: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Terry Gibson
Sent: 29 May 2012 14:28
To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Page one is the announcement and page two is about who, how and what can
be contributed, and when by.
The committee is secret, although it has been said that Ralph Schlosser
is part of it?
People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output
generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be
reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the
authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated
Communication."
A private Facebook group of 700 (so far) FC users, families,
facilitators and allies of FC came together over the last week in
response to the recent attack on FC, Anne McDonald and Rosemary Crossley
in the Australian press. The ISAAC position statement is a hot topic and
I will invite you and anyone here to join if you are interested - just
friend me on FB.
Terry
________________________________
From: "Mitchell, Dave (ChS-ISSS)" <dmitch...@worcestershire.gov.uk>
To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 11:28
Subject: RE: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Will the points made on this forum be shared with ISAAC?
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Adam Barrett
Sent: 29 May 2012 10:45
To: CM AAC Forum
Subject: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Can anyone enlighten me who is on this 'ad hoc' committee, for example
anyone who uses FC?
Will they be interviewing or meeting any individuals who use FC before
they release their position statement?
If the outcome of the position statement is negative towards FC will
this effect and discredit the membership of individuals who use FC to
CM/ISAAC?
Hoping for some answers,
Adam Barrett
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods
or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters
reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive,
libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
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1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
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or services.
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If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
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Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters
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-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods
or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters
reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive,
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From: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Terry Gibson
Sent: 29 May 2012 14:50
To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
I missed a word from the sentence:
"People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output
generated..."
People can submit to the review, BUT "descriptive analyses of output
generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be
reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the
authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated
Communication."
This is the way of evidence-based research, it puts tight constraints on
who can submit.
________________________________
From: Terry Gibson <terryjohnm...@yahoo.co.uk>
To: "cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com" <cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com> Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 14:28
Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Page one is the announcement and page two is about who, how and what can
be contributed, and when by.
The committee is secret, although it has been said that Ralph Schlosser
is part of it?
People can submit to the review "descriptive analyses of output
generated by someone using Facilitated Communication will not be
reviewed unless there has been prior independent verification that the
authorship has been attributed to the individual using Facilitated
Communication."
A private Facebook group of 700 (so far) FC users, families,
facilitators and allies of FC came together over the last week in
response to the recent attack on FC, Anne McDonald and Rosemary Crossley
in the Australian press. The ISAAC position statement is a hot topic and
I will invite you and anyone here to join if you are interested - just
friend me on FB.
Terry
________________________________
From: "Mitchell, Dave (ChS-ISSS)" <dmitch...@worcestershire.gov.uk>
To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 11:28
Subject: RE: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Will the points made on this forum be shared with ISAAC?
[mailto:cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Adam Barrett
Sent: 29 May 2012 10:45
To: CM AAC Forum
Subject: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Can anyone enlighten me who is on this 'ad hoc' committee, for example
anyone who uses FC?
Will they be interviewing or meeting any individuals who use FC before
they release their position statement?
If the outcome of the position statement is negative towards FC will
this effect and discredit the membership of individuals who use FC to
CM/ISAAC?
Hoping for some answers,
Adam Barrett
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods
or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters
reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive,
libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
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The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
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If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
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-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
represent the views of Communication Matters.
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or services.
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If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface
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-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences
and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not
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There has been lots of discussion since ISAAC announced the formation of an 'ad hoc' committee on FC.
I have asked who the committee members and readers are, but have not heard back yet.
I am working with Marion Stanton(CandLE) to create a document that will go to ISAAC about this issue. CM are very concerned about the ad hoc committee and its terms of reference. We hope we will have something to send over the weekend. I would anticipate the document will either be on the CM website or be sent out with the e-news or both at an appropriate point.
As members of CM, you are also individual members of ISAAC and therefore are able to make your feelings clear, directly to ISAAC as well as this forum. Marion and I are reading all your comments to the google group and will include the points you all raise.
I hope this reassures you that CM isn't ignoring the issue! If anyone has any further comments or thoughts, please post them asap (if possible) in view of ISAAC's deadline! I'm sure they will be of help to Marion and I.
> There has been lots of discussion since ISAAC announced the formation of an 'ad hoc' committee on FC.
> I have asked who the committee members and readers are, but have not heard back yet.
> I am working with Marion Stanton(CandLE) to create a document that will go to ISAAC about this issue. CM are very concerned about the ad hoc committee and its terms of reference. We hope we will have something to send over the weekend. I would anticipate the document will either be on the CM website or be sent out with the e-news or both at an appropriate point.
> As members of CM, you are also individual members of ISAAC and therefore are able to make your feelings clear, directly to ISAAC as well as this forum. Marion and I are reading all your comments to the google group and will include the points you all raise.
> I hope this reassures you that CM isn't ignoring the issue! If anyone has any further comments or thoughts, please post them asap (if possible) in view of ISAAC's deadline! I'm sure they will be of help to Marion and I.
Judy Bailey has given me permission to share her opinion and links to FC positions and FC research that she shared with USSAAC - posted below the follwing link to Doug Biklen's UNESCO award:
Douglas Biklen (USA) wins UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize to Promote Quality Education for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 2011. Douglas Biklen is Dean of the School of Education, Professor and founding faculty member of the Center on Human Policy, Law and Disability Studies, and the Institute on Communication and Inclusion, Syracuse University (USA), where the ICI established the Facilitated Communication Training Standards.
>To: Presid...@ussaac.org >BCC: sandra.mcclen...@emich.edu, linda...@comcast.net, judybai...@aol.com >Sent: 1/26/2012 1:29:19 A.M. Eastern Standard Time >Subj: Opinion on Facilitated Communication and ISAAC position statement >TO: Pat Ourand, USSAAC President and USSAAC Executives >Dear Ms. Ourand: >I am a member of USSAAC and have been active for the past few years with the ISAAC International AAC Awareness Month activities and the AAC Awareness Month website. I am writing to inform you and the Executive staff of USSAAC that I fully support the prudent use of Facilitated Communication (FC) Training when implemented following the Facilitated Communication Training Standards established by the Institute on Communication and Inclusion at Syracuse University. A document describing Fundamental Principles and Best Practices for Facilitated Communication Training is available here: >http://soe.syr.edu/media/documents/2010/6/FUNDAMENTAL_PRINCIPLES_AND_... >I have provided some additional links at the end of this letter which give additional information on the method, including the recommendation that it is a method of last resort when other methods have not helped an individual to achieve effective natural communication (Anne McDonald Centre). >Through the use of Facilitated Communication Training methods, many people around the world (in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy, UK, Sri Lanka, Finland, Japan and elsewhere) have developed the ability to type independently and to otherwise establish that they themselves are the authors of their typed communication. Some have learned to speak or have improved their speech after learning to type to communicate. These individuals through their extremely hard work and the support of their families and others have succeeded in gaining a voice. As Beukelman and Mirenda stated in their Augmentative and Alternative Communication textbook, “For them, the controversy has ended.” As June Downing has noted, “FC thus offers some individuals with severe and multiple disabilities an opportunity to express themselves and should be considered as a viable intervention option.” (Chapter 11 Communication Skills, in Educating Children with Multiple Disabilities by
Fred Orelove et al).
>There are already organizations with position statements supporting both the Right to Communicate and the use of Facilitated Communication. It is important to note these organizations which include professionals, parents and individuals with disabilities (self-advocates, some of whom use AAC including the method of facilitated communication): TASH (www.tash.org) and the Autism National Committee (AutCom www.autcom.org). The Autism Society lists facilitated communication as a treatment option in its brochure for new families. >It is significant to note that although the AAIDD (formerly AAMR) at one time had a position statement discouraging the use of Facilitated Communication, except for research, on its website, this statement is no longer on the website. www.aaidd.org It is also worth noting that many of the position statements by various organizations discouraging the use of FC were issued in the mid 1990s and do not take into account subsequently published research—including the largest quantitative study by Cardinal et al which was published in 1996—nor the increasing number of independent typers. >We are at a point when Facilitated Communication Training must be viewed from the perspective that it has value for at least some individuals, even though it is not possible yet to predict for whom it might be beneficial. This perspective is necessary because of the established success of many individuals around the world in improving their communication through FC training—with the goal of independent communication, which some have already reached along with learning to speak. The evidence showing the value of facilitated communication for at least some individuals at present consists of qualitative and quantitative research studies which have investigated authorship and other related issues (development of speech and literacy, discourse analysis, eye-gaze tracking, message-passing, etc.), case studies, personal reports and demonstrations. An increasing number of people who learned to communicate using FC methods have moved forward in their lives,
graduating from high school and college, pursuing graduate degrees, developing careers. We should acknowledge that training and adherence to established best practices for the method are critically important. Otherwise, even research on FC will be flawed, as it will not be studying the actual method as specifically defined. In some of the early studies in which influence was demonstrated and authorship was not established, this indeed appears to have been the case.
>A position statement should emphasize that, as when using any other method for AAC, an individual learning to communicate using methods of FC training needs a skilled, openly communicating, closely cooperating team using good technique for success. As with all communication, misunderstandings and misinterpretation can happen. Naturally, as with any communication, people may make mistakes in their typing, relate incorrect information, fabricate stories, tell jokes, and so forth. Clarification and the opportunity to correct one’s communication are necessary aspects of communication by any method. Access to skilled communication partners is essential, too. I recommend that the position statements by TASH and AutCom be reviewed, as they may be helpful to ISAAC in formulating its own position statement.
>Thus, supporting the Right to Communicate by one’s chosen method (UN CRPD—see link below) and to use Facilitated Communication Training as a last resort method should be supported by ISAAC and USSAAC. As we know, many people around the world still wait for a voice. Some have tried numerous methods unsuccessfully or with minimal benefit, sometimes being presumed to have cognitive impairments, in the absence of more effective communication. With the use proper caution and the implementation of good technique, Facilitated Communication training may benefit some of these individuals. I hope that ISAAC will issue a thoughtful and well considered position statement in favor of the use of Facilitated Communication training methods. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about my position. I have provided a list of links to information, position statements and related articles below. I will be glad to provide further information that may
be helpful. Please forward my comments to other USSAAC Executives and to ISAAC for consideration.
>Links to information, position statements in support, related issues >The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), Article 21 - Freedom of expression and opinion, and access to information: >“States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can exercise the right to freedom of expression and opinion, including the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas on an equal basis with others and through all forms of communication of their choice [emphasis added] . . .”http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/rights/convtexte.htm >Institute on Communication and Inclusion (ICI), Syracuse University (includes research that supports authorship and research that does not support authorship; description of the method; Fundamental Principles and Best Practices; Facilitated Communication Training Standards; resources) >www.ici.syr.edu >Anne McDonald Centre in Melbourne, Australia (includes description of the method and an explanation that it is a last resort method) >http://www.annemcdonaldcentre.org.au/facilitated-communication-training >TASH position statement supporting the Right to Communicate and access to Facilitated Communication >http://tash.org/advocacy-issues/human-rights/ >TASH Breaking the Barriers website (includes information and resources on Facilitated Communication) >http://tash.org/breaking-the-barriers/ >AutCom – Autism National Committee position statement supporting Facilitated Communication (detailed statement describing the method and related issues including motor planning and other movement difficulties with autism) >www.autcom.org >Next Steps: A Guide for Families New to Autism, The Autism Society (lists Facilitated Communication as a Treatment Option) >http://support.autism-society.org/site/DocServer/nextsteps06.pdf?docI... >Massachusetts Guidelines for
> Judy Bailey has given me permission to share her opinion and links to FC positions and FC research that she shared with USSAAC - posted below the follwing link to Doug Biklen's UNESCO award:
> Douglas Biklen (USA) wins UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize to Promote Quality Education for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 2011.
> Douglas Biklen is Dean of the School of Education, Professor and founding faculty member of the Center on Human Policy, Law and Disability Studies, and the Institute on Communication and Inclusion, Syracuse University (USA), where the ICI established the Facilitated Communication Training Standards.
> From: JudyBai...@aol.com
> To: Presid...@ussaac.org
> BCC: sandra.mcclen...@emich.edu, linda...@comcast.net, judybai...@aol.com
> Sent: 1/26/2012 1:29:19 A.M. Eastern Standard Time
> Subj: Opinion on Facilitated Communication and ISAAC position statement
> TO: Pat Ourand, USSAAC President and USSAAC Executives
> Dear Ms. Ourand:
> I am a member of USSAAC and have been active for the past few years with the ISAAC International AAC Awareness Month activities and the AAC Awareness Month website. I am writing to inform you and the Executive staff of USSAAC that I fully support the prudent use of Facilitated Communication (FC) Training when implemented following the Facilitated Communication Training Standards established by the Institute on Communication and Inclusion at Syracuse University. A document describing Fundamental Principles and Best Practices for Facilitated Communication Training is available here:
> http://soe.syr.edu/media/documents/2010/6/FUNDAMENTAL_PRINCIPLES_AND_... > I have provided some additional links at the end of this letter which give additional information on the method, including the recommendation that it is a method of last resort when other methods have not helped an individual to achieve effective natural communication (Anne McDonald Centre).
> Through the use of Facilitated Communication Training methods, many people around the world (in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy, UK, Sri Lanka, Finland, Japan and elsewhere) have developed the ability to type independently and to otherwise establish that they themselves are the authors of their typed communication. Some have learned to speak or have improved their speech after learning to type to communicate. These individuals through their extremely hard work and the support of their families and others have succeeded in gaining a voice. As Beukelman and Mirenda stated in their Augmentative and Alternative Communication textbook, “For them, the controversy has ended.” As June Downing has noted, “FC thus offers some individuals with severe and multiple disabilities an opportunity to express themselves and should be considered as a viable intervention option.” (Chapter 11 Communication Skills, in Educating Children with Multiple Disabilities by Fred Orelove et al).
> There are already organizations with position statements supporting both the Right to Communicate and the use of Facilitated Communication. It is important to note these organizations which include professionals, parents and individuals with disabilities (self-advocates, some of whom use AAC including the method of facilitated communication): TASH (www.tash.org) and the Autism National Committee (AutCom www.autcom.org). The Autism Society lists facilitated communication as a treatment option in its brochure for new families.
> It is significant to note that although the AAIDD (formerly AAMR) at one time had a position statement discouraging the use of Facilitated Communication, except for research, on its website, this statement is no longer on the website. www.aaidd.org It is also worth noting that many of the position statements by various organizations discouraging the use of FC were issued in the mid 1990s and do not take into account subsequently published research—including the largest quantitative study by Cardinal et al which was published in 1996—nor the increasing number of independent typers.
> We are at a point when Facilitated Communication Training must be viewed from the perspective that it has value for at least some individuals, even though it is not possible yet to predict for whom it might be beneficial. This perspective is necessary because of the established success of many individuals around the world in improving their communication through FC training—with the goal of independent communication, which some have already reached along with learning to speak. The evidence showing the value of facilitated communication for at least some individuals at present consists of qualitative and quantitative research studies which have investigated authorship and other related issues (development of speech and literacy, discourse analysis, eye-gaze tracking, message-passing, etc.), case studies, personal reports and demonstrations. An increasing number of people who learned to communicate using FC methods have moved forward in their lives, graduating from high school and college, pursuing graduate degrees, developing careers. We should acknowledge that training and adherence to established best practices for the method are critically important. Otherwise, even research on FC will be flawed, as it will not be studying the actual method as specifically defined. In some of the early studies in which influence was demonstrated and authorship was not established, this indeed appears to have been the case.
> A position statement should emphasize that, as when using any other method for AAC, an individual learning to communicate using methods of FC training needs a skilled, openly communicating, closely cooperating team using good technique for success. As with all communication, misunderstandings and misinterpretation can happen. Naturally, as with any communication, people may make mistakes in their typing, relate incorrect information, fabricate stories, tell jokes, and so forth. Clarification and the opportunity to correct one’s communication are necessary aspects of communication by any method. Access to skilled communication partners is essential, too. I recommend that the position statements by TASH and AutCom be reviewed, as they may be helpful to ISAAC in formulating its own position statement.
> Thus, supporting the Right to Communicate by one’s chosen method (UN CRPD—see link below) and to use Facilitated Communication Training as a last resort method should be supported by ISAAC and USSAAC. As we know, many people around the world still wait for a voice. Some have tried numerous methods unsuccessfully or with minimal benefit, sometimes being presumed to have cognitive impairments, in the absence of more effective communication. With the use proper caution and the implementation of good technique, Facilitated Communication training may benefit some of these individuals. I hope that ISAAC will issue a thoughtful and well considered position statement in favor of the use of Facilitated Communication training methods. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about my position. I have provided a list of links to information, position statements and related articles below. I will be glad to provide further information that may be helpful. Please forward my comments to other USSAAC Executives and to ISAAC for consideration.
> Links to information, position statements in support, related issues
> The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), Article 21 - Freedom of expression and opinion, and access to information:
> “States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can exercise the right to freedom of expression and opinion, including the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas on an equal basis with others and through all forms of communication of their choice [emphasis added] . . .”http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/rights/convtexte.htm > Institute on Communication and Inclusion (ICI), Syracuse University (includes research that supports authorship and research that does not support authorship; description of the method; Fundamental Principles and Best Practices; Facilitated Communication Training Standards; resources)
> www.ici.syr.edu > Anne McDonald Centre in Melbourne, Australia (includes description of the method and an explanation that it is a last resort method)
> http://www.annemcdonaldcentre.org.au/facilitated-communication-training > TASH position statement supporting the Right to Communicate and access to Facilitated Communication
> http://tash.org/advocacy-issues/human-rights/ > TASH Breaking the Barriers website (includes information and resources on Facilitated Communication)
> http://tash.org/breaking-the-barriers/ > AutCom – Autism National Committee position statement supporting Facilitated Communication (detailed statement describing the method and related issues including motor planning and other movement
Donna Downing, Chair of AUTCOM has written to ISAAC and forwarded AUTCOM's Position on FC http://www.autcom.org/
Thank you, Terry
________________________________ From: Info Candle <i...@candleaac.com> To: "cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com" <cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com> Sent: Wednesday, 30 May 2012, 10:02 Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Thank you Terry. This is extremely helpful.
All the best
Marion
Sent from my iPad Marion Stanton
On 30 May 2012, at 09:52, Terry Gibson <terryjohnm...@yahoo.co.uk> wrote:
>Judy Bailey has given me permission to share her opinion and links to FC positions and FC research that she shared with USSAAC - posted below the follwing link to Doug Biklen's UNESCO award:
>Douglas Biklen (USA) wins UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize to Promote Quality Education for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 2011. >Douglas Biklen is Dean of the School of Education, Professor and founding faculty member of the Center on Human Policy, Law and Disability Studies, and the Institute on Communication and Inclusion, Syracuse University (USA), where the ICI established the Facilitated Communication Training Standards. > >Article: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/media-services/single-view/news/douglas_...
>From: JudyBai...@aol.com >>To: Presid...@ussaac.org >>BCC: sandra.mcclen...@emich.edu, linda...@comcast.net, judybai...@aol.com >>Sent: 1/26/2012 1:29:19 A.M. Eastern Standard Time >>Subj: Opinion on Facilitated Communication and ISAAC position statement >>TO: Pat Ourand, USSAAC President and USSAAC Executives >>Dear Ms. Ourand: >>I am a member of USSAAC and have been active for the past few years with the ISAAC International AAC Awareness Month activities and the AAC Awareness Month website. I am writing to inform you and the Executive staff of USSAAC that I fully support the prudent use of Facilitated Communication (FC) Training when implemented following the Facilitated Communication Training Standards established by the Institute on Communication and Inclusion at Syracuse University. A document describing Fundamental Principles and Best Practices for Facilitated Communication Training is available here: >>http://soe.syr.edu/media/documents/2010/6/FUNDAMENTAL_PRINCIPLES_AND_... >>I have provided some additional links at the end of this letter which give additional information on the method, including the recommendation that it is a method of last resort when other methods have not helped an individual to achieve effective natural communication (Anne McDonald Centre). >>Through the use of Facilitated Communication Training methods, many people around the world (in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy, UK, Sri Lanka, Finland, Japan and elsewhere) have developed the ability to type independently and to otherwise establish that they themselves are the authors of their typed communication. Some have learned to speak or have improved their speech after learning to type to communicate. These individuals through their extremely hard work and the support of their families and others have succeeded in gaining a voice. As Beukelman and Mirenda stated in their Augmentative and Alternative Communication textbook, “For them, the controversy has ended.” As June Downing has noted, “FC thus offers some individuals with severe and multiple disabilities an opportunity to express themselves and should be considered as a viable intervention option.” (Chapter 11 Communication Skills, in Educating Children with Multiple Disabilities by
Fred Orelove et al).
>>There are already organizations with position statements supporting both the Right to Communicate and the use of Facilitated Communication. It is important to note these organizations which include professionals, parents and individuals with disabilities (self-advocates, some of whom use AAC including the method of facilitated communication): TASH (www.tash.org) and the Autism National Committee (AutCom www.autcom.org). The Autism Society lists facilitated communication as a treatment option in its brochure for new families. >>It is significant to note that although the AAIDD (formerly AAMR) at one time had a position statement discouraging the use of Facilitated Communication, except for research, on its website, this statement is no longer on the website. www.aaidd.org It is also worth noting that many of the position statements by various organizations discouraging the use of FC were issued in the mid 1990s and do not take into account subsequently published research—including the largest quantitative study by Cardinal et al which was published in 1996—nor the increasing number of independent typers. >>We are at a point when Facilitated Communication Training must be viewed from the perspective that it has value for at least some individuals, even though it is not possible yet to predict for whom it might be beneficial. This perspective is necessary because of the established success of many individuals around the world in improving their communication through FC training—with the goal of independent communication, which some have already reached along with learning to speak. The evidence showing the value of facilitated communication for at least some individuals at present consists of qualitative and quantitative research studies which have investigated authorship and other related issues (development of speech and literacy, discourse analysis, eye-gaze tracking, message-passing, etc.), case studies, personal reports and demonstrations. An increasing number of people who learned to communicate using FC methods have moved forward in their lives,
graduating from high school and college, pursuing graduate degrees, developing careers. We should acknowledge that training and adherence to established best practices for the method are critically important. Otherwise, even research on FC will be flawed, as it will not be studying the actual method as specifically defined. In some of the early studies in which influence was demonstrated and authorship was not established, this indeed appears to have been the case.
>>A position statement should emphasize that, as when using any other method for AAC, an individual learning to communicate using methods of FC training needs a skilled, openly communicating, closely cooperating team using good technique for success. As with all communication, misunderstandings and misinterpretation can happen. Naturally, as with any communication, people may make mistakes in their typing, relate incorrect information, fabricate stories, tell jokes, and so forth. Clarification and the opportunity to correct one’s communication are necessary aspects of communication by any method. Access to skilled communication partners is essential, too. I recommend that the position statements by TASH and AutCom be reviewed, as they may be helpful to ISAAC in formulating its own position statement.
>>Thus, supporting the Right to Communicate by one’s chosen method (UN CRPD—see link below) and to use Facilitated Communication Training as a last resort method should be supported by ISAAC and USSAAC. As we know, many people around the world still wait for a voice. Some have tried numerous methods unsuccessfully or with minimal benefit, sometimes being presumed to have cognitive impairments, in the absence of more effective communication. With the use proper caution and the implementation of good technique, Facilitated Communication training may benefit some of these individuals. I hope that ISAAC will issue a thoughtful and well considered position statement in favor of the use of Facilitated Communication training methods. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about my position. I have provided a list of links to information, position statements and related articles below. I will be glad to provide further information that may
be helpful. Please forward my comments to other USSAAC Executives and to ISAAC for consideration.
>>Links to information, position statements in support, related issues >>The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), Article 21 - Freedom of expression and opinion, and access to information: >>“States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that persons with disabilities can exercise the right to freedom of expression and opinion, including the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas on an equal basis with others and through all forms of communication of their choice [emphasis added] . . .”http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/enable/rights/convtexte.htm >>Institute on Communication and Inclusion (ICI), Syracuse University (includes research that supports authorship and research that does not support authorship; description of the method; Fundamental Principles and Best Practices; Facilitated Communication Training Standards; resources) >>www.ici.syr.edu >>Anne McDonald Centre in Melbourne, Australia (includes description of the method and an explanation that it is a last resort method) >>http://www.annemcdonaldcentre.org.au/facilitated-communication-training >>TASH position statement supporting the Right to Communicate and access to Facilitated Communication
re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who have a particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
Communication Matters stands by its mission statement by recognising and raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
Communication Matters is preparing a response to the ISAAC initiative and will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
Just to let you know, this statement has been well received and appreciated by a number of groups I know of who who have been concerned about the ISAAC proposed position statement on FC.
All the best
Marion Stanton
Sent from my iPad Marion Stanton
On 13 Jun 2012, at 09:52, Communication Matters <admingro...@communicationmatters.org.uk> wrote:
> re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
> Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
> Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who have a particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
> Communication Matters stands by its mission statement by recognising and raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
> Communication Matters is preparing a response to the ISAAC initiative and will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
> Dr Janice Murray
> Chair, Communication Matters > -- > GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
> 1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
> 2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
> 3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
> If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
> Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
> To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
> To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
> For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
Yes I got my email earlier today. It is good that she is making a stand or statement about FC. Joe and I went to meet her a couple of months ago now, and the QR group invited her over to help with her research, so she is familiar with the group!!
I tried to get her and the alliance for inclusive education to work together on some project... not ever thinking it maybe something like this!! ha ha... lets hope the professional involved is clued up... is it you by any chance? I did think it would/could be... or maybe Anne Emmerson? as she is a SLT too...
who knows but this is all good for FC in my eyes... as it promotes it use with good training etc... the problem that we encounter is always going to be the bad training... and people thinking all they have to do is pick up someones hand and away they go... but they never ever progress - and I have seen many a person use FC this way... rant over... so lets hope it promotes good training and support...
and come over anytime for lunch/dinner - that is tea up here... whenever you are free it would be lovley to see you both / all
XX
----- Original Message ----- From: Info Candle To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Cc: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2012 5:36 PM
Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Just to let you know, this statement has been well received and appreciated by a number of groups I know of who who have been concerned about the ISAAC proposed position statement on FC.
All the best
Marion Stanton
Sent from my iPad Marion Stanton
On 13 Jun 2012, at 09:52, Communication Matters <admingro...@communicationmatters.org.uk> wrote:
re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who have a particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
Communication Matters stands by its mission statement by recognising and raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
Communication Matters is preparing a response to the ISAAC initiative and will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
Dr Janice Murray
Chair, Communication Matters
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
Thank you for this Janice, Gillian, Marion and all who contributed. Is the response on Facebook the one that CM is sending ISAAC formally? Just asking as it's signed by Marrion? Will it be shared on the website and eNews?
Terry
On 13 Jun 2012, at 17:36, Info Candle <i...@candleaac.com> wrote
Just to let you know, this statement has been well received and appreciated by a number of groups I know of who who have been concerned about the ISAAC proposed position statement on FC.
On 13 Jun 2012, at 09:52, Communication Matters <admingro...@communicationmatters.org.uk> wrote:
re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
>Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by
the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
>Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who have a
particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
> >Communication Matters stands by its mission statement by recognising and
raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
> >Communication Matters is preparing a response to the ISAAC initiative and
will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
> >Dr Janice Murray >Chair, Communication Matters >-- >GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM > >1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters. > >2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services. > >3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * >If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'. > >Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines. > >To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com >To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com >For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
Oops! I have mistaken Marion Stanton / CANDLE's response as members, to be CM's response to ISAAC. Terry
On 22 Jun 2012, at 22:00, Terry Gibson <terryjohnm...@yahoo.co.uk> wrote:
Thank you for this Janice, Gillian, Marion and all who contributed. Is the response on Facebook the one that CM is sending ISAAC formally? Just asking as it's signed by Marrion? Will it be shared on the website and eNews?
Terry
On 13 Jun 2012, at 17:36, Info Candle <i...@candleaac.com> wrote
Just to let you know, this statement has been well received and appreciated by a number of groups I know of who who have been concerned about the ISAAC proposed position statement on FC.
On 13 Jun 2012, at 09:52, Communication Matters <admingro...@communicationmatters.org.uk> wrote:
re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
>Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by
the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
>Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who have a
particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
> >Communication Matters stands by its mission statement by recognising and
raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
> >Communication Matters is preparing a response to the ISAAC initiative and
will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
> >Dr Janice Murray >Chair, Communication Matters >-- >GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM > >1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters. > >2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services. > >3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * >If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'. > >Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines. > >To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com >To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com >For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
-- GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
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Update: Judy Bailey has just pointed us to this document on USSAAC website: Resolution of Disapproval, 10 June 2012, submitted to the Executives of the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC) by USSAAC.
________________________________ From: Barrett <sandrabarr...@blueyonder.co.uk> To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com Sent: Wednesday, 13 June 2012, 20:03 Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Hi Marion,
Yes I got my email earlier today. It is good that she is making a stand or statement about FC. Joe and I went to meet her a couple of months ago now, and the QR group invited her over to help with her research, so she is familiar with the group!! I tried to get her and the alliance for inclusive education to work together on some project... not ever thinking it maybe something like this!! ha ha... lets hope the professional involved is clued up... is it you by any chance? I did think it would/could be... or maybe Anne Emmerson? as she is a SLT too... who knows but this is all good for FC in my eyes... as it promotes it use with good training etc... the problem that we encounter is always going to be the bad training... and people thinking all they have to do is pick up someones hand and away they go... but they never ever progress - and I have seen many a person use FC this way... rant over... so lets hope it promotes good training and support... and come over anytime for lunch/dinner - that is tea up here... whenever you are free it would be lovley to see you both / all XX
----- Original Message ----- >From: Info Candle >To: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com >Cc: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com >Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2012 5:36 PM >Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
>Just to let you know, this statement has been well received and appreciated by a number of groups I know of who who have been concerned about the ISAAC proposed position statement on FC.
>All the best
>Marion Stanton
>Sent from my iPad Marion Stanton
>On 13 Jun 2012, at 09:52, Communication Matters <admingro...@communicationmatters.org.uk> wrote:
>re. ISAAC position statement on Facilitated Communication
>>Communication Matters would like to clarify that it is concerned by the recent ISAAC initiative to form an ad hoc committee with the remit of producing a position statement on Facilitated Communication (FC).
>>Communication Matters has been consulting with its members who
have a particular focus on FC and invited a specialist in FC to co-lead this consultation. Through this process, and in an unprecedented way, Communication Matters has consulted with those who are not currently members in relation to our response to ISAAC.
>> >>Communication Matters
stands by its mission statement by recognising and raising the concerns of those who have personal experience of the value and benefit that FC offers.
>> >>Communication Matters is preparing a response to the
ISAAC initiative and will expect ISAAC to respond to the concerns expressed. We will post these documents on the AAC Forum as they are offered.
>> >>Dr Janice Murray >>Chair, Communication Matters >>-- >>GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM >> >>1.
The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
>> >>2. This email group must
not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
>> >>3.
* COMMERCIAL INTERESTS *
>>If you are a supplier or have commercial
interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
>> >>Although this group is not actively
moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
>> >>To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com >>To
unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
>>-- >GUIDELINES - COMMUNICATION MATTERS AAC FORUM > >1.
The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
> >2. This email group must not be used
for advertising or promoting goods or services.
> >3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * >If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must
preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
> >Although this group is not actively moderated,
Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
1. The purpose of this email group is for people to share experiences and information about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The views and opinions expressed are those of individuals and do not represent the views of Communication Matters.
2. This email group must not be used for advertising or promoting goods or services.
3. * COMMERCIAL INTERESTS * If you are a supplier or have commercial interests, you must preface each of your posts with the words 'COMMERCIAL INTERESTS DECLARED'.
Although this group is not actively moderated, Communication Matters reserves the right to remove messages and members considered offensive, libellous, or not following the above guidelines.
To post to this group, email: cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com To unsubscribe from this group, email: cm-aac-forum+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com For more options, visit: http://groups.google.com/group/cm-aac-forum
I promised several people at CM that I would resend links to FC research and opinion that they missed earlier in the year and which are useful to inform opinion on the current position of FC worldwide, so I am adding today's comment to the original thread.
I am particularly interested in the Italian study because it was the intention of ISAAC to ban foreign research from their Position Statement on FC, and because it is a linguistic study of over 1,300 pages of writings consisting of 424,400 words, very different from simple - blind testing of authorship, and yielding compelling results that are common to all with autism but not to neurotypicals. Public lecture slides (in English) on this study are available here: http://soe.syr.edu/media/documents/2012/4/__Public_Lecture_SLIDES.pdf
Tuzzi, A. (2009). Grammar and lexicon in individuals with autism: a quantitative analysis of a large Italian corpus. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 47, 373-385. “Statistical and linguistic procedures were implemented to analyze a large corpus of texts written by 37 individuals with autism and 92 facilitators (without disabilities), producing written conversations by means of PCs. Such texts were compared and contrasted to identify the specific traits of the lexis of the group of individuals with autism and assess to what extent it differed from the lexis of the facilitators. [...] The results support the existence of lexis and distributional patterns of grammatical categories that are characteristic of the written production of individuals with autism and that are different from those of facilitators.” (p. 373) Results 1. Lexical richness and POS distribution Findings: the texts written by individuals with Autism showed a higher level of lexical richness, a greater proportion of adjectives and a tendency to omit grammatical words. Implications: the results support the hypothesis of the existence of distinctive lexical features and grammatical patterns. 2. Text clustering and authorship attribution Findings: the texts written by individuals with Autism are similar to each other and different from texts produced by other groups (facilitators and participants in the control group) Implications: the results support the hypothesis of the existence of distinctive and consistent lexical features 3. Correspondence and content analysis Findings: the contents expressed in texts written by individuals with Autism are similar to each other and deal mainly with feelings and emotions Implications: the results support the hypothesis of the existence of distinctive, consistent and topic-consistent lexical features A link on Judy Bailey's Facilitated Communication page at Everyone Communicates http://www.everyonecommunicates.org/methods/fc.html leads to this extensive article on FC in The Examiner:
I hope these resources educate and contribute to a more balanced view on FC, and in the end we must remember that individuals have a legal right to the facilitation of communication by any and all means of their choosing, that access to communication, freedom of expression and opinion and ideed equal education are also legal rights.
Thank you, Terry
________________________________ From: Terry Gibson <terryjohnm...@yahoo.co.uk> To: "cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com" <cm-aac-forum@googlegroups.com> Sent: Wednesday, 30 May 2012, 9:52 Subject: Re: [AAC Forum] ISAAC position statement on FC
Thank you Gillian, Marion, and CM.
Judy Bailey has given me permission to share her opinion and links to FC positions and FC research that she shared with USSAAC - posted below the follwing link to Doug Biklen's UNESCO award:
Douglas Biklen (USA) wins UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize to Promote Quality Education for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 2011. Douglas Biklen is Dean of the School of Education, Professor and founding faculty member of the Center on Human Policy, Law and Disability Studies, and the Institute on Communication and Inclusion, Syracuse University (USA), where the ICI established the Facilitated Communication Training Standards.
>To: Presid...@ussaac.org >BCC: sandra.mcclen...@emich.edu, linda...@comcast.net, judybai...@aol.com >Sent: 1/26/2012 1:29:19 A.M. Eastern Standard Time >Subj: Opinion on Facilitated Communication and ISAAC position statement >TO: Pat Ourand, USSAAC President and USSAAC Executives >Dear Ms. Ourand: >I am a member of USSAAC and have been active for the past few years with the ISAAC International AAC Awareness Month activities and the AAC Awareness Month website. I am writing to inform you and the Executive staff of USSAAC that I fully support the prudent use of Facilitated Communication (FC) Training when implemented following the Facilitated Communication Training Standards established by the Institute on Communication and Inclusion at Syracuse University. A document describing Fundamental Principles and Best Practices for Facilitated Communication Training is available here: >http://soe.syr.edu/media/documents/2010/6/FUNDAMENTAL_PRINCIPLES_AND_... >I have provided some additional links at the end of this letter which give additional information on the method, including the recommendation that it is a method of last resort when other methods have not helped an individual to achieve effective natural communication (Anne McDonald Centre). >Through the use of Facilitated Communication Training methods, many people around the world (in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy, UK, Sri Lanka, Finland, Japan and elsewhere) have developed the ability to type independently and to otherwise establish that they themselves are the authors of their typed communication. Some have learned to speak or have improved their speech after learning to type to communicate. These individuals through their extremely hard work and the support of their families and others have succeeded in gaining a voice. As Beukelman and Mirenda stated in their Augmentative and Alternative Communication textbook, “For them, the controversy has ended.” As June Downing has noted, “FC thus offers some individuals with severe and multiple disabilities an opportunity to express themselves and should be considered as a viable intervention option.” (Chapter 11 Communication Skills, in Educating Children with Multiple Disabilities by
Fred Orelove et al).
>There are already organizations with position statements supporting both the Right to Communicate and the use of Facilitated Communication. It is important to note these organizations which include professionals, parents and individuals with disabilities (self-advocates, some of whom use AAC including the method of facilitated communication): TASH (www.tash.org) and the Autism National Committee (AutCom www.autcom.org). The Autism Society lists facilitated communication as a treatment option in its brochure for new families. >It is significant to note that although the AAIDD (formerly AAMR) at one time had a position statement discouraging the use of Facilitated Communication, except for research, on its website, this statement is no longer on the website. www.aaidd.org It is also worth noting that many of the position statements by various organizations discouraging the use of FC were issued in the mid 1990s and do not take into account subsequently published research—including the largest quantitative study by Cardinal et al which was published in 1996—nor the increasing number of independent typers. >We are at a point when Facilitated Communication Training must be viewed from the perspective that it has value for at least some individuals, even though it is not possible yet to predict for whom it might be beneficial. This perspective is necessary because of the established success of many individuals around the world in improving their communication through FC training—with the goal of independent communication, which some have already reached along with learning to speak. The evidence showing the value of facilitated communication for at least some individuals at present consists of qualitative and quantitative research studies which have investigated authorship and other related issues (development of speech and literacy, discourse analysis, eye-gaze tracking, message-passing, etc.), case studies, personal reports and demonstrations. An increasing number of people who learned to communicate using FC methods have moved forward in their lives,
graduating from high school and college, pursuing graduate degrees, developing careers. We should acknowledge that training and adherence to established best practices for the method are critically important. Otherwise, even research on FC will be flawed, as it will not be studying the actual method as specifically defined. In some of the early studies in which influence was demonstrated and authorship was not established, this indeed appears to have been the case.
