Comunicação Aumentativa e Alternativa e Transtorno do Espectro Autista: uma proposta de formação para professoras e comunidades escolares de educação infantil

Abstract

This intervention research has as general aim at analyzing perceptions by teachers regarding the inclusion of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the context of Early Childhood Education and the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication. This qualitative research adopts the participatory research method. The research questions four Early Childhood Education teachers, a pedagogical coordinator and two teachers of Specialized Educational Services at a municipal school in the city of Dias d’Ávila-Bahia. To achieve this research general aim, a structured questionnaire was first used, and subsequently, two focus groups were held, prioritizing listening to participants regarding inclusive education themes. Then, it was found that teachers have some knowledge of the specificities of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and recognize the importance of inclusion. However, they still have limited knowledge about Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Finally, the analyses undertaken based on participants’ reports suggest that continuing education in inclusive education points to a dialogue with the reality and challenges of everyday life, in addition to incorporating participation of school support professionals. In view of this, Technical-Technological Production is configured in the format of a proposal for training in cycles for teachers and communities in the context of Early Childhood Education with a collaborative focus on the themes of inclusive education, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Therefore, Technical-Technological Production is configured in the format of a proposal for training in cycles for teachers and communities in the Early Childhood Education context with a collaborative focus on themes of inclusive education, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Augmentative and Alternative Communication.