Authoring interface for customizable Augmentative and Alternative Communication mobile applications

• Grant number: 24/06196-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2024
• End date: May 11, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Computer Science - Computer Systems
• Principal Investigator: Bruna Carolina Rodrigues da Cunha
• Grantee: Victor Hugo Trigolo Amaral
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Matemáticas e de Computação (ICMC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Assistive Technologies (ATs) aim to eliminate barriers and promote the inclusion of people with disabilities, whether through resources, equipment, or systems, in order to improve their autonomy, mobility, and communication. High-tech ATs have been valuable resources in proposing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, allowing communication for people with Complex Communication Needs (CCN). However, the abandonment rate of high-tech solutions in this field is considered high, due to usability and customization issues. This project seeks to investigate the user's authoring experience in creating customized AAC interfaces for older adults with aphasia and motor limitations. The project will employ an iterative approach, with evaluations conducted by Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) experts and potential users, including healthcare professionals, educators, and family members of AAC users. The analysis of the results will be qualitative, focusing on identifying usability errors and proposing adaptable solutions to improve the user experience and the effectiveness of AAC solutions.