In this podcourse episode, we welcome back Daj Mitchell to discuss evidence-based caregiver coaching strategies for AAC.

Daj explains Andragogy (Malcolm Knowles), including adult learning assumptions (autonomy, experience, relevance, internal motivation, problem-solving) and principles such as involving adults in planning, using their experience, and clarifying end goals, with examples like collaboratively setting up device charging routines.

She also shares a visual “stair-step” AAC acceptance/buy-in journey, from unaware to curious/cautious to open/overwhelmed to motivated/needing structure, with possible advocacy, and discusses its dynamic nature and potential research applications.

Evidence-based coaching strategies highlighted include joint planning, observation, action/practice, reflection, and feedback, with practical adaptations for school, EI, and other settings using consult time, video modeling, and the SET Framework.