Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

Mary, a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, uses an AAC device with row selection. What access method is being utilized?

1. Linear scanning

2. Circular scanning

3. Row-column scanning

4. Group item scanning

The correct answer is: Linear scanning

The situation describes a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using an AAC device that employs row selection, which indicates a specific scanning method. In this context, the access method being utilized is best characterized as row-column scanning. Row-column scanning involves systematically highlighting each row first, allowing the user to select a row, and then scanning through the items in that row. This two-step process is particularly effective for users who may have limited motor function, as it simplifies the selection process by narrowing down the options in a logical and organized manner. The linear scanning method exclusively moves in a straight path through the options without pausing for selection, making it less suited for the row selection described. Circular scanning, on the other hand, rotates through options in a circular pattern, which also does not align with the described row selection method. Group item scanning entails presenting options in groups to facilitate selection but does not involve the distinct row-column approach that is central to the correct answer. Thus, in the context of using an AAC device with row selection, row-column scanning accurately reflects the method being employed, allowing Mary to effectively interact with her AAC device despite her motor challenges.