Words and chips - pragmatics and pidginization of computer-aided communication

Abstract

The expressive communication of physically disabled persons is often restricted by lack of speech and sufficient speed in use of written language. New generation communication aids are based on word lists, which makes communication faster. The colloquial language of communication aid users will deviate from the language used by most members of their culture, and it is likely to share characteristics with the verbal output of other persons with limited means of communication. A way to enhance language development in users of communication aids would be to teach them communication strategies which are manifested in pidginization.