Project Core 3D Vocabulary Symbols Adapted for Audio Output
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Margaret Vento-Wilson
Research or Creativity Area
Engineering & Computer Science
Abstract
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) consists of a set of strategies and tools that can be no/low, mid, or high tech to support individuals who are unable to use natural speech as their primary mode of expression. One such set of tools is Project Core 3D Vocabulary Symbols, which are tactile blocks meant for clients with complex communication needs. The symbols can be used to make up a core vocabulary of words that is meant to be combined to create communicative messages. They're 3D printed, often have the words, braille, and abstract symbols. They are categorized by nouns, verbs, pronouns, etc., and colors.
Dr. Margaret Vento-Wilson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is an AAC specialist who brought forth the idea that these symbols could have a voice/chip to say the word when handed from client to communication partner. These tactile symbols with voicing would support more efficient and effective communication and offer the potential to support greater communicative competence and participation for the individuals who use them.
The scope of the project will be the prototyping and completion of 3 tactile blocks that are typically introduced first to clients: GO, NOT, LIKE. These 3 blocks are 3D printed and have battery-powered electrical components built into them to enable a voice recording to be played when the user presses a button.
The three blocks will be donated to Dr. Margaret Vento-Wilson for a specific client of hers, a young boy who has complex communication needs in addition to visual and hearing impairments. Funding for this project was provided by the TigerTech funding program from the School of Engineering and Computer Sciences at University of the Pacific.
Project Core 3D Vocabulary Symbols Adapted for Audio Output
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) consists of a set of strategies and tools that can be no/low, mid, or high tech to support individuals who are unable to use natural speech as their primary mode of expression. One such set of tools is Project Core 3D Vocabulary Symbols, which are tactile blocks meant for clients with complex communication needs. The symbols can be used to make up a core vocabulary of words that is meant to be combined to create communicative messages. They're 3D printed, often have the words, braille, and abstract symbols. They are categorized by nouns, verbs, pronouns, etc., and colors.
Dr. Margaret Vento-Wilson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is an AAC specialist who brought forth the idea that these symbols could have a voice/chip to say the word when handed from client to communication partner. These tactile symbols with voicing would support more efficient and effective communication and offer the potential to support greater communicative competence and participation for the individuals who use them.
The scope of the project will be the prototyping and completion of 3 tactile blocks that are typically introduced first to clients: GO, NOT, LIKE. These 3 blocks are 3D printed and have battery-powered electrical components built into them to enable a voice recording to be played when the user presses a button.
The three blocks will be donated to Dr. Margaret Vento-Wilson for a specific client of hers, a young boy who has complex communication needs in addition to visual and hearing impairments. Funding for this project was provided by the TigerTech funding program from the School of Engineering and Computer Sciences at University of the Pacific.
