Augmentative Communication Research Articles

Overview of the Space Weather Impact on the Navigation and Communication Systems

This article summarizes and analyzes the space weather impact on the Earth´s surface, aviation – especially navigation and communication aids, satellite functions ensuring communication, and GPS function. Forecasting the geomagnetic storms, solar radiation storms, radio blackouts, X-ray flux, and others is difficult due to the high variability of the space weather conditions and sun activity. It can change every hour and the exact space weather conditions and the impact on aviation for the future are hard to predict. This article shows some predictions and historical data regarding space weather activity, where the stated values were collected from the NOAA page. The article states the daily maximums or the maximums of predicted phenomena activity. Because of the complexity and the facts mentioned above, the historical data and predictions show the summary and most important phenomena of the day. The article consists of 3 main chapters: 1. Space Weather 2. Space Weather Impact on Technological Vulnerability 3. Space Weather Condition Overview in Data. The last chapter in this article is a conclusion that consists of and mentions some information about the used alternative methods when a GPS lapse occurs. Even though there are some alternate systems, but still using satellite-based navigation and communication aids is still the first option, and space weather events highly affect the systems and are a big hazard for aviation.

Reading instruction for students with intellectual disabilities who require augmentative and alternative communication: A multiple single case study with baseline, posttest, follow-up, and maintenance

The purpose of the current study was to examine whether seven children, aged 6–10 years, with intellectual disabilities who require augmentative and alternative communication, could acquire phonological awareness and reading skills by using a reading material that is based on research on the evidence-based reading program Accessible literacy learning. The effect of the measures has been examined using a multiple single-case design with baseline, posttest, follow-up, and maintenance. All the teachers were trained to deliver the reading intervention in the students’ familiar place at school. The results indicated that students with intellectual disabilities who require augmentative and alternative communication could acquire phonological awareness and decoding by working systematically with reading material based on evidence-based strategies.

Wireless Mouth Motion Recognition System Based on EEG-EMG Sensors for Severe Speech Impairments.

This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of using a new wireless electroencephalography (EEG)-electromyography (EMG) wearable approach to generate characteristic EEG-EMG mixed patterns with mouth movements in order to detect distinct movement patterns for severe speech impairments. This paper describes a method for detecting mouth movement based on a new signal processing technology suitable for sensor integration and machine learning applications. This paper examines the relationship between the mouth motion and the brainwave in an effort to develop nonverbal interfacing for people who have lost the ability to communicate, such as people with paralysis. A set of experiments were conducted to assess the efficacy of the proposed method for feature selection. It was determined that the classification of mouth movements was meaningful. EEG-EMG signals were also collected during silent mouthing of phonemes. A few-shot neural network was trained to classify the phonemes from the EEG-EMG signals, yielding classification accuracy of 95%. This technique in data collection and processing bioelectrical signals for phoneme recognition proves a promising avenue for future communication aids.

Use of an intelligent tutoring system for a curriculum on augmentative and alternative communication: Feasibility for implementation

AbstractBackgroundOver 8 million children with disabilities live in Africa and are candidates for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), yet formal training for team members, such as speech–language therapists and special education teachers, is extremely limited. Only one university on the continent provides postgraduate degrees in AAC, and other institutions provide only short modules at an undergraduate level. The need for an introductory training course on AAC that is accessible by university students continent‐wide was identified. An online programme, namely an intelligent tutoring system (ITS), was identified as a possible option to facilitate interactive learning without the need for synchronous teaching. The use of an ITS is shown to be effective in developing knowledge and clinical reasoning in the health and rehabilitation fields. However, it has not yet been applied to student teaching in the field of AAC.AimTo determine both the feasibility of an ITS to implement an AAC curriculum for students in four African countries, and the usability and effectiveness of such a system as a mechanism for learning about AAC.Method & ProceduresThe study included two components: the development of a valid AAC curriculum; and using the ITS to test the effectiveness of implementation in a pre‐ and post‐test design with 98 speech–language therapy and special education students from five universities.Outcomes & ResultsStatistically significant differences were obtained between pre‐ and post‐test assessments. Students perceived the learning experience as practical, with rich content.Conclusions & ImplicationsThe findings suggest that the ITS‐based AAC curriculum was positively perceived by the students and potentially offers an effective means of providing supplementary AAC training to students, although modifications to the system are still required.What this paper addsWhat is already known on the subject Professionals typically lack formal training in AAC. In Africa, this presents a serious challenge as there are over 8 million children who are candidates for AAC. A need for an introductory training course on AAC, which can be accessed by university students continent‐wide, was identified.What this paper adds to existing knowledge An AAC curriculum was developed and integrated into an ITS, an online programme allowing interactive learning through asynchronous teaching. Students from four African countries completed the AAC ITS curriculum. The curriculum was positively received by the students and statistically significant changes in knowledge were identified.What are the practical and clinical implications of this work? This feasibility study shows that the use of an ITS is an effective means of providing AAC training to university students in these African countries. The results provide a valuable contribution toward ensuring the equitable distribution of AAC training opportunities in the African context. This will have a significant positive impact on those who are candidates for AAC.

Special considerations for the use of AI tools by PEERs as a learning and communication aid.

There is no doubt that navigating academia is a formidable challenge, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds who face additional barriers at every turn. In such an environment, efforts to create learning and training environments that are diverse, equitable, and inclusive can feel like an uphill battle. We believe that harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) tools can help in leveling the playing field. While AI cannot supplant the need for supportive mentorship, it can serve as a vital supplement, offering guidance and assistance to those who may lack access to adequate avenues of support. Embracing AI in this context should not be stigmatized, as it may represent a vital lifeline for underrepresented individuals who often face systemic biases while forging their own paths in pursuit of success and belonging in academia. AI tools should not be gatekept from these individuals, particularly by those in positions of power and privilege within the scientific community. Instead, we argue, institutions should make a strong commitment to educating their community members on how to ethically harness these tools.

Variables asociadas a las características de comunicación y lenguaje de las personas con síndrome de Angelman en una muestra de la península Ibérica

IntroductionAngelman syndrome (AS) is a rare condition with low prevalence associated with severe global developmental delay, behavioral phenotype of happy appearance and social interaction, moderate to severe intellectual disability with minimal or absent oral language associated with molecular etiology and featuring clinical variables. ObjectivesTo describe communication and language abilities in a sample of individuals with AS from Spain and Portugal, explore the influence of molecular etiology, age and use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Materials and methodsThe sample comprised 40 individuals diagnosed with AS, from the Iberian Peninsula, assessed using the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventories. ResultsA characteristic profile is shown with a predominance of gestures and receptive language over expressive. Differences are noted by molecular subtype, age, use of AAC and the origin in the Iberian Peninsula. ConclusionsThe linguistic phenotype for Angelman Syndrome is consistent with findings from other studies, however associated variables such as molecular etiology and use of AAC should be considered.

A Core Outcome Set for Research Evaluating Interventions to Enable Communication in Patients With an Artificial Airway: An International Delphi Consensus Study (Comm-COS).

Critically ill adults requiring artificial airways experience profound communication deficits. Studies of interventions supporting communication report disparate outcomes, creating subsequent challenges in the interpretation of their effectiveness. Therefore, we aimed to develop international consensus for a communication core outcome set (Comm-COS) for future trials of communication interventions in this population. 1) Systematic review, 2) patient/family interviews, 3) two-round modified Delphi, and 4) virtual consensus meetings with a final voting round. A multidisciplinary expert steering committee oversaw all stages. Interviews and consensus meetings were conducted via videoconferencing. Digital methods were used for Delphi and final Comm-COS voting. Three stakeholder groups: 1) patient and family members with lived experience within 3 years, 2) clinicians with experience working in critical care, and 3) researchers publishing in the field. None. We identified 59 outcomes via our systematic review, 3 unique outcomes from qualitative interviews, and 2 outcomes from our steering committee. Following item reduction, 32 outcomes were presented in Delphi round 1; 134 participants voted; 15 patient/family (11%), 91 clinicians (68%), and 28 researchers (21%). Nine additional outcomes were generated and added to round 2; 106 (81%) participants voted. Following completion of the consensus processes, the Comm-COS includes seven outcomes: 1) changes in emotions and wellbeing associated with ability to communicate, 2) physical impact of communication aid use, 3) time to functional communication, 4) ability to communicate healthcare needs (comfort/care/safety/decisions), 5) conversation agency, 6) ability to establish a communication connection to develop and maintain relationships, and 7) acceptability of the communication intervention. This is the first COS to specifically focus on communication for critically ill adults. Limitations for operationalization include selection of measures to use with these outcomes. Identification of suitable measures and adoption of the Comm-COS in future trials will help establish effective interventions to ameliorate the highly prevalent and negative experience of communicative incapacity.

How to talk about dying? The development of an evidence-based model for communication with patients in their last days of life and their family caregivers

ObjectiveTo help healthcare professionals (HCP) act with more confidence when communicating about approaching death, we sought to develop a communication model for HCP to facilitate conversations with dying patients and family caregivers (FC) in nonemergency situations. MethodsWe used a four-phase integrative approach: (1) creation of a preliminary model based on a systematic literature review and expert knowledge, (2) review of the model draft by international palliative care experts, (3) review by key stakeholders, and (4) final appraisal by communication experts. ResultsAfter the clinical recognition of dying, the communication model provides a structure and practical communication aids for navigating the conversation based on three phases. It describes the content and relational level as core dimensions of effective conversations about approaching death and highlights the importance of HCP self-awareness and self-care when caring for the dying. ConclusionBased on systematic involvement of key stakeholders, the model supports clinicians navigating challenging conversations about approaching death with dying patients and their FC successfully and with more confidence. InnovationThis study expands the theoretical basis for communication about approaching death and offers a pragmatic model for educational interventions and clinical use.

Integration of Ukrainian refugees in Belgium thanks to learning French

This paper considers the integration of Ukrainian refugees in Belgium – French Language assistance in the province of Walloon Brabant in Belgium. The learning of the local language is essential to enable them to orientate themselves, communicate and integrate into French-speaking society. Learning of French plays an essential role in the integration of these refugees in Belgium. It facilitates social interactions, access to employment and understanding of local culture. Initiatives such as the Reception and Schooling Scheme for Newly Arriving and Assimilated Students, the French Language of Education support system, the Local Integration Initiative as well as the applications and sites: Wallangues, “Bonjour Belgique”, First Aid Communication Tool, Alpha French Foreign Language Portal were developed to help Ukrainian refugees learn French, thus promoting their integration into French-speaking Belgian society. Also, several systems and structures studied to teach French quickly and effectively to Ukrainian refugees who arrive in Belgium. As a result of the study, it was found that the level and speed of progression in learning depend on the initial notions of French previously received, the personal motivation and the commitment of Ukrainian learners.

Comparing and contrasting barriers in augmentative alternative communication use in nonspeaking autism and complex communication needs: multi-stakeholder perspectives.

Augmentative alternative communication (AAC) devices or systems are often prescribed to minimally verbal or nonspeaking autistic individuals and other individuals with complex communication needs to facilitate communication or as an alternative to spoken language. AAC use can result in communication gains and improved quality of life for minimally verbal or nonspeaking individuals. Despite this, AAC abandonment is high, limiting societal participation of the individual on the autism spectrum with complex communication needs. Our study is a novel exploration of the barriers of AAC use from a multi-stakeholder perspective, and a qualitative analysis of similarities and differences between stakeholders. We conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 30 parent-carers, educators and clinicians currently supporting AAC users in Western Australia and analysed the data using reflexive thematic analysis. Barriers from each stakeholder group were coded, resulting in 17 subthemes forming five main themes common to all stakeholders: Stakeholder Knowledge, Stakeholder Attitudes and Stigma, Resources, AAC User Engagement, and Device Fit. Contrasting perspectives included actual and perceived stigma associated with AAC use (parent-carers vs clinicians); different struggles with resources and knowledge (parent-carers vs clinicians and educators); and a lack of clinician communication in the processes that determined AAC-fit for school environments (educators only). Findings are discussed in the context of improving inter-stakeholder collaboration and capacity building in Australian health service and practice to better support minimally verbal or nonspeaking autistic individuals and individuals with complex communication needs. Suggestions are also offered for communication partner training.

Aided augmentative and alternative communication intervention for adults with developmental disabilities: a scoping review

Objectives The purpose of the current study was to review the available literature on aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention for adults with developmental disabilities (DD) excluding autism. AAC refers to strategies used to compensate for temporary or permanent impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions of individuals with severe disorders of speech and language production. Methods The scoping review searched seven databases and utilized keywords including adults, developmental disabilities, and augmentative and alternative communication. Extracted variables included study design, study intervention domain according to the Communicative Competence framework (linguistic, operational, social, strategic), and study results (positive, negative, mixed). Results Nineteen studies were included in the review with 43 participants in a 30-year period. Most studies were single-subject design studies (n = 12). Interventions varied widely but most focused on social (n = 11) or linguistic (n = 9) skills. Communication partner training was targeted in eight of the 19 studies. Conclusions Relatively limited research has addressed aided AAC interventions for adults with DD. While outcomes of current research studies are largely positive, it is necessary to further investigate AAC intervention techniques for adults with DD.

Student Reflections on Roles Related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Perceived Preparedness for Practice

Student Reflections on Roles Related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Perceived Preparedness for Practice

The influence of agility on green purchasing practices: the role of supplier governance and supplier relationships

PurposeThis paper aims to illuminate the nuanced dynamics of green supply chain management (GSCM), specifically focusing on the intersections of supplier relationships, supplier governance and organizational agility. Recognizing a gap in the understanding of how these elements confluence to promote green purchasing, the paper uses a quantitative study on data collected from the Australian food industry. Advanced analysis techniques provide empirical evidence underscoring the pivotal roles these elements play, expanding on current GSCM literature within a resource-based view.Design/methodology/approachThis study, based on a questionnaire sent to Australian food professionals, used higher-order reflective constructs to assess supplier relationships and governance. Data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling and Hayes PROCESS, considering factors like firm revenue and manager experience. Both the reliability of measures and mediation hypotheses were stringently validated using established guidelines.FindingsThe comprehensive study validated supplier governance's key influence on green purchasing and supplier relationships. Notably, organizational agility emerged as a crucial mediator, underscoring the interplay of these constructs. Concurrently, the reflective measurement model exhibited robust validity and reliability. Interestingly, demographic factors such as company size, revenue and managerial experience showed no discernible impact on green purchasing practices.Practical implicationsIn the Australian food sector, supplier governance and relationships are pivotal for advancing green purchasing. This study emphasizes the value of organizational agility in amplifying these practices. Managers, when aligning with supplier relationships enhanced by communication and mutual aid, can foster robust green initiatives. Embracing these insights and the critical importance of supplier governance, managers can drive more sustainable, informed supply chain decisions in the industry.Originality/valueIn pursuit of understanding the relationship between supplier governance, supplier relationships and green purchasing, this research uniquely situates itself within the resource-based view (RBV) to reveal critical theoretical and practical implications. By focusing on the Australian food industry, the study spotlights the often-overlooked mediating role of organizational agility in linking supplier relationships with green purchasing efforts. In doing so, this research not only strengthens the argument for fortified supplier relationships – as a catalyst for enhancing agility and thereby green practices – but also re-contextualizes the RBV in a fresh light. This new perspective provides managers with an enriched model, emphasizing the imperative of solid supplier governance for sustainable, agile and green supply chain operations in the food domain.

Alternative Augmentative Communication in paediatric dentistry: a mighty tool to amplify mother tongue's power.

The role of a child's mother tongue in shaping his/her identity and emotional development is crucial. In the context of paediatric dentistry, this principle should always be reminded. The child's right to effective communication, even when a language barrier exists, is a fundamental principle, as recently stated in the 'Rights from the Start' rights fact sheet. Preserving a child's native language in the dental setting, especially in the context of an increasingly diverse society with a significant number of refugee children, is essential. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies can assist in bridging language gaps and improving treatment outcomes, blending with the traditional approaches used in paediatric dentistry. The article promotes flexibility, innovation, and empathy in paediatric dentistry to provide optimal care and ensure that every child's rights are respected. • The relationship with one's mother language plays a central role in children's growth and in the relationship they can develop with the world, "motherised" by the words of the caregiver. • The interaction between immigrant children from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds and dentists providing their care requires the integration of traditional paediatric dental techniques with AAC strategies that can compensate for deficient oral communication. • Dentists treating immigrant children should follow the suggestions proposed in this article to establish the best and most tailored paediatric setting for the child's specific needs.

An Applied Model of Interprofessional Collaboration-Assessment (AMIC-A): A Process-Based Approach to Augmentative and Alternative Communication.

Speech-language pathologists and board-certified behavior analysts both provide important support services to children who are candidates for augmentative and alternative communication. Current assessment practices neglect critical socioecological factors that are necessary to inform communication-based interventions. By leveraging the unique knowledge, research, and expertise of both disciplines, an interprofessional approach to assessment may help realize individualized or precision interventions and personalized supports that address the unique communication needs of each person. The purpose of this article is to introduce a process-based approach to assessment called the "Applied Model of Interprofessional Collaboration-Assessment (AMIC-A)." The AMIC-A will be defined and detailed including the rationale for development, a description of the approach, and recommendations for implementation. A case study example is provided to illustrate implementation of the AMIC-A.

Speakezio Application as an Alternative and Augmentative Communication Media for Cerebral Palsy Students

The obstacle experienced by most children with cerebral palsy is limited communication skills. This is due to disorders of the speech organs or limitations in receptive and expressive language abilities experienced by children with cerebral palsy. So, when communicating, you need alternative augmentative media or communication systems (AAC) that can help you communicate. This research aims to develop the Speakezio application as AAC media. The method used is the RD (Research and Development) research method with a qualitative approach. This research involves one subject (single subject) which is used as a model in developing applications. This research obtained results in the form of the Speakezio application which was developed based on the results of assessments on target subjects and trials of the application as a media for the AAC system. The trial results show that this application can improve children's receptive and expressive language skills. Apart from that, this application can help communication between children and parents so that parents can more easily understand the messages conveyed by children.

Addressing AAC Knowledge and Skill Barriers in Rural Communities: Strategies for Success

Professionals and communication partners report experiencing challenges with regard to developing the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals with complex communication needs who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). These challenges can be exacerbated in rural and remote areas where access to resources and training may be limited. This practitioner-focused article provides evidence-based strategies for addressing the knowledge and skill needs experienced by professionals and communication partners in rural communities, including strategies for (a) identifying AAC knowledge and skill needs, (b) accessing AAC resources, (c) using principles of instructional design and instructional coaching to address identified areas of need, (d) considering contexts for instruction, and (e) examining contextual fit.

Medical Rescue, Psychological Aid, and Cultural Communication: The Theoretical Framework of the Modern Emergency Medicine System

Medical Rescue, Psychological Aid, and Cultural Communication: The Theoretical Framework of the Modern Emergency Medicine System

Considering preferences, speed and the animation of multiple symbols in developing P300 brain-computer interface for children

Purpose Prior research has begun establishing the efficacy of animation in brain-computer interfaces access to augmentative and alternative communication (BCI-AAC). However, the use of animation in P300-BCI-AAC for children is in the early stages and largely limited to single item highlighting of extended durations. In pursuit of practical application, the present study aims to evaluate children’s event-related potential (ERP) characteristics and user experience during a task involving an animated P300-BCI-AAC system. Materials and methods The system utilizes multi-item zoom animations to access a 28-pictorial symbols. Participants completed a fast (100 ms) and slow (200 ms) zoom animation highlighting conditions wherein four pictorial symbols were highlighted concurrently. Results The proposed display appears feasible, eliciting all targeted ERPs. However, ERP amplitudes may be reduced in comparison to single-item animation highlighting, possibly due to distraction. Ratings of mental effort were significantly higher for the 100 ms condition, though differences in the frontal P200/P300 ERP did not achieve significance. Most participants identified a preference for the 100 ms condition, though age may impact preference. Conclusions Overall, findings support the preliminary feasibility of a proposed 28-item interface that utilises group zoom animation highlighting of pictorial symbols. Further research is needed evaluating ERP characteristics and outcomes from online (real-time) use of animation-based P300-BCI-AAC for children with severe speech and physical impairments across multiple training sessions.

Unpacking the prevalence: A warning against overstating the recently narrowed gap for Black autistic youth.

Recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network's 2020 prevalence report indicate that disparities in autism diagnoses between Black and White youth have narrowed, reflecting improved screening, awareness, and access to services (Maenner et al., 2023. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Surveillance Summaries (Washington, D.C.: 2002), 72, 1-14.). Claims of reducing disparities beyond prevalence rates, however, are not fully supported, as indicated by the reality that Black youth whose screenings indicate autistic traits are still not being referred for full evaluation or early intervention services at the same rate as their White peers (Major et al., 2020. Autism, 24, 1629-1638; Smith et al., 2020. Pediatrics, 145, S35-S46.). Black 8-year-olds identified as autistic still experience disparate educational placements (Waitoller et al., 2010. The Journal of Special Education. 44, 29-49.) where services may not be autism-specific or have Individual Education Plan goals only focused on "behavior problems" (Severini et al., 2018. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48, 3261-3272.), are served in the most restrictive environments (Skiba et al., 2006. Exceptional Children, 72, 411-424.) and lack consistent augmentative and alternative communication support (Pope et al., 2022. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 31, 2159-2174.). Additionally, ADMM researchers report consistent disparities in the identification of co-occurring intellectual disability where Black autistic children have significantly more co-occurrences than White autistic children. The purpose of this commentary is to first examine the assertion that the narrowed gap indicates, "…improved…access to services among historically underserved groups," (p. 9) (Maenner et al., 2023. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Surveillance Summaries (Washington, D.C.: 2002), 72, 1-14.). We will then recommend strategies to address the ongoing disparities.