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  4. Vol 7, Issue 2, 2026

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Interventions for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Evidence, Communication Functions, and Directions for Promoting Inclusive Practice

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DOI: 10.23977/medsc.2026.070212 | Downloads: 0 | Views: 14

Author(s)

Sidan Duan 1, Jiahui Wei 1, Jialing Ni 2, Weimin Chen 2

Affiliation(s)

1 School of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
2 Tongji University Affiliated Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital, Songjiang, Shanghai, 201600, China

Corresponding Author

Weimin Chen

ABSTRACT

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder that has become a major focus of clinical transformation as global healthcare models shift towards affirmative care for neurodiversity. Focusing on this evolving field, we narratively synthesize evidence from 2021 to 2025 and engage in in-depth discussions on a range of issues, from expanding communicative functions to promoting inclusive social practices. Research has shown significant breakthroughs in shifting intervention goals from basic requesting skills to advanced commentary and narrative abilities, as well as in the comparative application of various augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) models. Given the complexity of individual differences and the limitations of traditional isolation training, achieving communicative autonomy requires a comprehensive, eco-effective approach that integrates it into natural contexts such as co-reading and play. This article focuses on how emerging evidence can enhance clinical decision-making and explores the development of individualized, context-adaptive system designs. Recent research advances not only enrich the theoretical foundation of speech-language pathology but also provide new insights for addressing equity gaps and promoting genuine social inclusion in future research.

KEYWORDS

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Communication Function, Inclusive Practice, Neurodiversity, Clinical Intervention

CITE THIS PAPER

Sidan Duan, Jiahui Wei, Jialing Ni, Weimin Chen. Augmentative and Alternative Communication Interventions for People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Evidence, Communication Functions, and Directions for Promoting Inclusive Practice. MEDS Clinical Medicine (2026). Vol. 7, No.2, 93-102. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/medsc.2026.070212.

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