Research
critiques (pro and con) and future perspectives associated with your topic of
study. What are the down sides to your particular topic?
Alternative augmentative communication
devices are defined as being, “all forms of communication (other than speech)
that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas.” (American Speech-Language-Hearing
Association, n.d.). There are many different types of AAC systems. For
example AAC systems can include unaided communication systems such as sign
language as well as aided communication systems such as simple paper and pencil
and more complex systems of “communication books or boards to devices that
produce voice output” (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, n.d.).
Article ReviewAnother example of an aided communication system is the MINISPEAK. (Mathisen, Kelly, Kidd, & Nissen, 2009, p. 379).
AAC systems are amazing in that they
provide ways for those with complex communication needs (CCN) to be able to communicate
with the world around them and improves their quality of life. It is
challenging however that most of these AAC systems are expensive and can
require extensive training that makes them less accessible to those that need
them (Mathisen, Kelly, Kidd, & Nissen, 2009, p. 376).
What
does the research say about its effectiveness?
In one case study using MINISPEAK
researchers found that the participant, “demonstrated increased assertiveness
with the beginning of conversational repair strategies, her communicative forms
developed from one word responses up to five word responses, and she demonstrated
less frustrations with communication breakdown” (Mathisen, Kelly, Kidd,
& Nissen, 2009, p. 379). Even though the results looked very promising for this
one particular case study the researchers point out that, “the system has
received little scientific investigation in terms of its efficacy” and also
emphasize that further research is needed (Mathisen, Kelly, Kidd, & Nissen,
2009, p. 378).
What
does the future hold?
The future for this type of instructional
technology is uncertain. The same issues of the technology being too complicated
and too expensive continue to make it less accessible to the greater population
that desperately needs it. Without this technology being more readily available
to a larger population further research will continue to be difficult to
conduct. Another factor to consider is that the successful use and implementation
of this type of technology also depends heavily on each individual child which
also makes the study of the effectiveness of such technologies difficult.
What
new advances do the experts predict for your professional area?
As technology advances AAC systems continue
to become more, “portable and durable” (MDA, 2015). Excitingly Brain-Computer
Interface (BCI) is a new development in the AAC world that would make input methods
such as keyboards and switches obsolete. One company, Thought-Wired, is in the
process of developing a BCI system called NOUS, “a solution that enables an
entirely physical free access method for communication and other applications” that
is neuro-transmitted through messages from the brain (Coyne, 2014, p. 58).
What
implications do these hold for you as a professional?
As a professional the advances and development
of AAC systems will require that I make sure that I am current with the latest
advances and research related to AAC systems. I know that there is no one system
that meets all the needs of those with complex communication needs. And the
consideration of any AAC system requires that we look at the specific needs of
each individual and personal preferences when it comes to determining the best
AAC system.
How
will you use this information to be a better informed professional?
I will continue to make sure that
I am a well-informed professional by making connections with local universities
and organizations that focus on my areas of interest. By doing so I will
hopefully stay abreast of the latest AAC developments and advances. Attending
seminars and trainings will also assist me in my pursuit of continuous professional
development.
Questions
Can you think of any other type of technology that could
assist those with complex communication needs?
Do you know of any other developments in the alternative
augmentative communication field?
References
American
Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). Augmentative and Alternative
Communication (AAC). Retrieved May 1, 2015, from
http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/AAC/
Coyne, D. (2014). Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Guidelines for speech pathologists who support people with a disability. Retrieved from http://www.adhc.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/file/0011/302402/Augmentative-and-Alternative-Communication-Practice-Guide.pdf
Mathisen, B., Arthur-Kelly, M., Kidd, J., & Nissen, C. (2009). Using MINSPEAK: a case study of a preschool child with complex communication needs. Disability & Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 4(5), 376-383. doi:10.1080/17483100902807112
MDA. (2015). Chapter 6: Speech and Communication | Everyday Life with ALS: A Practical Guide | MDA. Retrieved May 1, 2015, from http://www.mda.org/publications/everyday-life-als/chapter-6
Semantic Compaction Systems. (2009). Minspeak Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) Device, Core Vocabulary, Autism & Augmentative Speech Generating System. Retrieved May 1, 2015, from http://www.minspeak.com/
Thanks for continuing my education about alternative means of communication via technology, Amber!
ReplyDeleteTo respond to your question…
According to the Center for AAC & Autism (2009), “Any communication other than verbal speech is considered augmentative/alternative communication” (¶ 2). Consequently, I think the AAC most familiar to many of us is American Sign Language (ASL). There are assistive technologies in existence and in development for the future that could help mediate communication between people with limitations such as those with autism (like those we discussed in your previous post regarding PECS) or those with hearing and speech impairments related to other disorders and challenges.
For people who utilize ASL, specifically people who are deaf or have significant hearing impairments, it has been difficult in the past to communicate with those who only speak English, others with whom they interact each day. However, according to Belt (2014), Microsoft has developed a device called Kinect that “uses multiple cameras and infrared lights in order to track body movement and recognize gestures” (¶ 2). Using adaptive or assistive software, technologies like Kinect may help to bridge the communication gap that individuals with hearing impairments and related disabilities encounter regularly. “The translation software uses the power of Kinect [to] translate body movements from the ASL signer and turn it into written or spoken English [and to] take written or spoken English, translate it, and sign ASL using an avatar on screen” (Belt, 2014, ¶ 2). The Kinect translation software can work both with Windows and Xbox platforms, making the technology accessible to anyone who already owns or who can easily access such hardware (Belt, 2014). “Imagine the possibilities for connecting everyone—whether we’re working, chatting, or playing a video game” (Belt, 2014, ¶ 2).
Other technologies that may assist deaf people and those with hearing impairments include video calling applications available on today’s smartphones (Belt, 2014). Because ASL is a “visual language,” video calling applications familiar to most of us (e.g., Skype, FaceTime, Hangouts) have the possibility of revolutionizing communication, allowing for “rich and meaningful conversations” that “can show context, gestures, facial expressions, and even the speed of human motion—all of the brilliant elements of ASL” (Belt, 2014, ¶ 6).
Those are just some of the technologies that I found that relate to AAC, Amber. Are you familiar with any of those types of AAC, or are there any other advancements in those areas that I didn’t find in my research?
Thanks again for engaging my interest in such technologies. I look forward to seeing what the future holds in this area!
~ Terresa
References
Belt, C. M. (2014). Connected: How new technologies are transforming deaf communication. Retrieved from http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/topics/technology-deaf-communication.htm
The Center for AAC & Autism. (2009). AAC and autism. Retrieved from http://www.aacandautism.com/why-aac
Hi Terresa-
DeleteI had not heard of the Kinect but it sounds very interesting. Unfortunately I am most familiar with PECS and Proloquo for AAC devices mainly because families mostly have to pay for the devices. These two at least insurance has helped with some of the cost but insurances are reluctant to pay for devices that are so new or that don't have the long history of research to support its effectiveness.
Thank you for sharing. I will be sure to do some more research about the suggested devices.
Amber G.
Hi Amber, on a side note to Terresa's response to your blog, I think the brain technology is very advanced and it could be useful to quadraplegics, or ALS patients, anyone who is paralyzed from the neck down that has brain function but cannot communicate normally. There are a number of diseases or other malfunctions that this new technology could help those individuals, the future holds many possibilities for sure. I think you did a good job of researching this topic, I'm sure there is more research out there, but you will find it. Thanks for your very informed blog.
ReplyDeleteHi Cindy-
DeleteI agree. Can you imagine how the lives of those that have been unable to communicate due to physical limitations but are completely cognizant. Not only for them but for their loved ones. Thank you for sharing.
Take care.
Amber G.