REKNEW: Co-Construction for AAC Devices (SBIR-InvoTek)
Project Description:
We propose to develop a new, technology-based system for AAC conversation, for persons with SSPI, that is grounded in co-construction (one person finishing a sentence for another) and word prediction. We will develop two Android apps that communicate wirelessly, CoConstruct-AAC for the AAC user and CoConstructor for the non-disabled communication partner. The AAC user spells out a message with CoConstruct-AAC. The second app, CoConstructor, displays a copy of the AAC users message as it is being created and enables the co-constructor to suggest words or phrases in real time by either typing out words, or by choosing words from a prediction list. The word and phrase predictions, along with other words stored in the device, are used by a language model within the AAC users app, and presented in standard word prediction lists to the AAC user. The AAC user maintains independence to choose or ignore the co-construction suggestions during message generation. This written interaction between the tablet devices mimics the co-construction behavior observed in typical speaking conversations. The development of the technology will take place at InvoTek, Inc. and will be made available in the Google Play store once fully developed.
Keyword(s):
SSPI, Co-Construction, mobile technology; AAC
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation
Area of Emphasis
Other - Assistive Technology
Target Audience:
Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
