Dialogue on Dialect: A Positive Reflection on African American English

February 5, 2020
7:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET

Sponsored by Ventris Learning 

The words that we use to describe African American English linguistic features are synonymous with the words we use to describe communication disorders. This overlap in terminology can be confusing because ASHA’s stance on difference versus disorder is very clear—a cultural-linguistic difference in not a disorder. As a result, it can be difficult to accurately assess, diagnose, or treat communication disorders in AAE-speakers. However, if we change the words we use to describe AAE features for what they are, then it can be possible to change the way we think about AAE and more importantly AAE-speakers. This live chat will discuss ways to positively talk about AAE and the implications surrounding assessment and treatment in order to foster a positive reflection on its speakers.

• Megan-Brette Hamilton, PhD, CCC-SLP, Department of Communication Disorders, Auburn University
• Dionna Latimer-Hearn, PhD, CCC-SLP, SLP & Educational Consultant, Approved vendor for FWISD & MISD, Director of REACT Initiative, Inc.

This free event is open to all ASHA members (it is not offered for CEUs).