Kate Anderson

Dr. Kate Anderson is an Honorary Fellow at Deakin University's School of Health and Social Development within the Faculty of Health. She is a dedicated researcher and lecturer specializing in communication assistive technology, online teaching practices, and disability inclusion. With a background as a speech pathologist, Dr. Anderson brings six years of practical experience in cerebral palsy, autism, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to her academic work.

Dr. Anderson holds a PhD and Bachelor of Applied Science in Speech Pathology from the University of Sydney. She is actively involved with ISAAC (International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication), serving as the Australian chapter president and previously as scientific co-chair for the 17th biennial ISAAC conference in 2018. She also holds a fellowship with Deakin's Centre for Research in Assessment and Digital Learning (CRADLE).

Her research interests include:

• Aided Language Development and Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• Assistive Technology and Usability Testing
• Information Access and Capacity Building for people with disabilities
• Online teaching and learning practices in tertiary and community education
• Disability inclusion, diversity, and Universal Design
• Telepractice and rural/remote service delivery

Dr. Anderson's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on health communication during crises, digital health literacy, inclusive research methodologies, and assistive communication technologies, with consistent emphasis on human rights frameworks in disability services.

Her notable scientific awards include:

• School of Health and Social Development Excellence in Teaching Award (2016)
• Deakin University Unit Welcome Video Competition: Commendation (2016)
• Best Doctoral Candidate paper at the Communicating Together Speech Pathology Research Symposium (2013)
• Invited delegate for the Pittsburgh Employment Conference for Augmented Communicators (2009, 2011)

Dr. Anderson teaches courses including HDS101: Communication Disability and Diversity and HDS106: Disability, Diversity, and Social Inclusion, and has secured significant research funding for projects related to disability services, telehealth, and inclusive communication.