The Evolution of Augmentative Communication and the Importance of Alternate Access

2011 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 34-37 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Chapple
Keyword(s):  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Cell Phone ◽  
Handheld Devices ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Access Methods ◽  
The Past ◽  
Communication Device ◽  
Internet Browser ◽  
A Cell ◽  
Development Of Language

Abstract Over the past 20 years, there have been many advances in the computer industry as well as in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. Computers are becoming more compact and have multiple purposes, such as the iPhone, which is a cell phone, mp3 player, and an Internet browser. AAC devices also have evolved to become multi-purpose devices; the most sophisticated devices have functionality similar to the iPhone and iPod. Recently, the idea of having the iPhone and iPad as a communication device was initiated with the development of language applications specifically for this format. It might be true that this idea could become the future of AAC devices; however, there are major access issues to overcome before the idea is a reality. This article will chronicle advancements in AAC devices, specifically on access methods, throughout the years, towards the transition to handheld devices. The newest technologies hold much promise with both features and affordability factors being highly attractive. Yet, these technologies must be made to incorporate alternate access if they are to meet their fullest potential as AAC tools.

New AAC Access Strategy for Gesture Tracking: A Technical Note

2012 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 11-16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susan Fager ◽  
Tom Jakobs ◽  
David Beukelman ◽  
Tricia Ternus ◽  
Haylee Schley
Keyword(s):  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Technical Note ◽  
Head Tracking ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Access Methods ◽  
Cord Injury ◽  
Physical Limitations ◽  
Gesture Tracking ◽  
Communication Needs ◽  
Tracking Device

Abstract This article summarizes the design and evaluation of a new augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interface strategy for people with complex communication needs and severe physical limitations. This strategy combines typing, gesture recognition, and word prediction to input text into AAC software using touchscreen or head movement tracking access methods. Eight individuals with movement limitations due to spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, polio, and Guillain Barre syndrome participated in the evaluation of the prototype technology using a head-tracking device. Fourteen typical individuals participated in the evaluation of the prototype using a touchscreen.

Understanding the Communication Needs of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students Who Are Deafblind

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (12) ◽  
pp. 81-88
Author(s):  
Sandy K. Bowen ◽  
Silvia M. Correa-Torres
Keyword(s):  
Sign Language ◽  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Linguistically Diverse ◽  
Spoken Language ◽  
Culturally And Linguistically Diverse ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Linguistically Diverse Students ◽  
The Past ◽  
Communication Needs ◽  
Different Cultures

America's population is more diverse than ever before. The prevalence of students who are culturally and/or linguistically diverse (CLD) has been steadily increasing over the past decade. The changes in America's demographics require teachers who provide services to students with deafblindness to have an increased awareness of different cultures and diversity in today's classrooms, particularly regarding communication choices. Children who are deafblind may use spoken language with appropriate amplification, sign language or modified sign language, and/or some form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

New Car, Same Principles: Using Language Development Theories to Drive the Design of Supportive Augmentative and Alternative Communication System Interfaces

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (12) ◽  
pp. 40-54
Author(s):  
Jamie B. Boster ◽  
Joann P. Benigno ◽  
John W. McCarthy
Keyword(s):  
Language Development ◽  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Developmental Theory ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Complex Communication Needs ◽  
Communication Devices ◽  
Development Of Language ◽  
Communication Needs ◽  
System Interfaces ◽  
Language Content

Innovations in technology have resulted in increased use of tablets, mobile devices, and applications as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems for children with complex communication needs (CCN). Although research has been conducted on the specific characteristics of AAC technologies, many interfaces remain replications of prior communication devices with little consideration of the features of newer platforms. A greater concern is that these interfaces may not be based on empirical evidence or derived from key developmental language theories. As such, these interfaces may place additional demands on children with CCN instead of supporting their development of language content, form, and use. The purpose of this paper is to discuss potential interface supports for AAC systems that capitalize on current technologies and draw upon key tenets of developmental theory.

The Future of the Android Operating System for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

2011 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 52-56 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeff Higginbotham ◽  
Steve Jacobs
Keyword(s):  
Operating System ◽  
Mobile Communications ◽  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Consumer Electronics ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Consumer Market ◽  
Access Methods ◽  
Software Applications ◽  
Field Transforming ◽  
Standard Software

Abstract We have experienced one of the most remarkable years in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The iPad, along with the iPhone, redefined mobile communications and personal computing technology. In the ensuing 9 months after the iPad's release, more than 50 non-iPad tablets have been developed and demonstrated at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show and are ready for the consumer market. For the AAC consumer, the proliferation of these mainstream technologies will result in increasingly inexpensive hardware and software, availability of alternative access methods, opportunity to use standard software applications, and availability of applications that meet the specific needs of individual consumers. Because the Android platform is still in its infancy—especially with respect to AAC—we will focus on the potential effects this operating system could have on AAC. We will describe Android, its current offerings, and future possibilities. The emergence of iOS and Android has disrupted the AAC field, transforming the ways that we look at, purchase, and use technology.

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