In the past, the way that people viewed communication was through a narrow lens. People often thought that if someone was unable to vocalize, or use their voice, they couldn’t communicate. As time went on and the study of speech and language developed, people began to recognize more options for communication, such as writing, sign language, and more.
With the advances being made in technology, the way in which individuals are able to communicate continues to expand. Having more options in which we are able to communicate allows us to be more inclusive of all individuals. Due to technology, it is becoming easier to take an individual’s strengths and find them a mode of communication that utilizes that.
Read more to find out about the ways in which technology has affected communication.
Switches:
Communicative switches allow messages to be recorded in order for individuals to select and communicate that message. Based upon an individual’s range of motion, switches are able to be placed in a variety of areas, in order to allow selection with hand, arms, foot, head, etc. An individual may have one button for one specific message, or may have a button that moves through a set of phrases. Based upon the individual and their specific needs and use of the switch, switches can vary in size, as well as options, such as having one button vs four buttons.
Speech Generating Devices (SGD’s):
SGD’s allow individuals to have a supplement or replacement to their verbal speech. For some individuals, verbal communication may be difficult or not be an option, however the use of a SGD provides them the opportunity to have a voice. Each SGD varies, based upon the software that it contains, however an example of how it is used might include using a keyboard to type a message, or making a selection of programmed buttons to formulate a message. The way in which selections are made are dependent upon the device, as well as the abilities of the communicator, such as using hand, switch, or eyegaze.
Applications:
With technology advances and research on functional communication continuously advancing, there have been several applications created in order to help individuals communicate. Each program has their own specific features that allow an individual to communicate their wants, needs, and thoughts to those around them. Based on the individual’s strengths and/or preferences, there are applications that utilize text/typing, custom pictures, symbols, motor planning, and other elements as the key foundation for learning the program. Some examples of applications include:
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- TouchChat
- Proloquo2go
- GoTalk Now
- LAMP WFL
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Eye Gaze:
With eye tracking technology, there are devices available today that allow an individual to make selections on a device using the movement of their eyes. Depending on the specific software, there is a protocol that allows the individual to engage in calibration of device, which lets the device find the individual’s eyes and follow their motion. This allows individuals to overcome physical limitations that may restrict them from using their voice or from being able to use other methods of selection discussed above.
If you or someone you know needs assistance in discovering a way to communicate that works best for them, our speech and language department is here to help! Call our office (586)-323-2957 to set up a free screening or to set up an evaluation with one of our trained clinicians.
Written by: Caroline Farney, MS CF-SLP
