Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities

1 Proloquo2Go: Empowering Communication for Individuals with Disabilities Chloe flock School of Education, Nevada State College EDSP 455 O1: Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities Prof. Rebecca Call April 28, 2024 2 Proloquo2Go: Empowering Communication for Individuals with Disabilities Introduction Proloquo2Go serves as a beacon of communication empowerment in the realm of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology. Developed by AssistiveWare, this high-tech AAC app is designed to facilitate communication for individuals with speech and language disabilities. Unlike traditional AAC devices, Proloquo2Go operates as a stand-alone application, compatible with iOS devices such as iPads and iPhones, providing a portable and versatile communication solution. Purpose and User Profile The primary purpose of Proloquo2Go is to bridge the communication gap for individuals with diverse communication needs. Its user base encompasses a wide spectrum of individuals, including children and adults with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, and various developmental disabilities. Proloquo2Go caters to users who face challenges in verbal communication, ranging from those who are nonverbal to those with limited verbal abilities requiring additional support. How it Works At the heart of Proloquo2Go lies its intuitive interface, offering a customizable grid layout where users can construct messages using symbols or text-to-speech output. The app provides access to an extensive library of symbols and customizable vocabulary sets, ensuring 3 tailored communication support for individual users. Navigation within the app is facilitated through touch input or switch access, accommodating users with diverse motor abilities. Additionally, Proloquo2Go supports multilingual communication, allowing users to seamlessly switch between different languages and dialects to express themselves effectively. Who it Supports Proloquo2Go serves as a lifeline for individuals seeking to express themselves and engage with their environment despite communication barriers. It caters to users with varying degrees of communication impairments, from those entirely reliant on AAC to individuals with partial verbal abilities requiring additional support. The app's flexibility in customization and adaptability to different communication styles makes it an inclusive solution for users with diverse needs and preferences. Unique Advantage One of the standout features of Proloquo2Go is its integration into everyday technology, leveraging the ubiquity and familiarity of iOS devices such as iPads and iPhones. This seamless integration enhances accessibility and encourages consistent usage across different settings, including home, school, and community environments. Unlike traditional AAC devices, Proloquo2Go offers the convenience of portability and versatility, empowering users to communicate effectively on-the-go. Research Data 4 Numerous studies have substantiated the effectiveness of Proloquo2Go in improving communication outcomes and enhancing quality of life for individuals with disabilities. For instance, a study by Balandin et al. (2012) demonstrated significant improvements in communication skills and social interaction for children with autism spectrum disorder using Proloquo2Go. Similarly, research by O'Neill et al. (2018) highlighted the positive impact of Proloquo2Go on language acquisition and expressive communication abilities in individuals with complex communication needs. Conclusion In conclusion, Proloquo2Go stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology in empowering individuals with disabilities to communicate and engage with the world around them. Its user-friendly interface, customizable features, and research-backed efficacy make it a cornerstone in the field of AAC technology. However, ongoing research and development are imperative to further refine the app's capabilities and address the evolving needs of diverse user populations. Personal Insights and Goals for Further Exploration As a speech-language pathologist, I recognize the profound impact of Proloquo2Go in facilitating communication and fostering independence for individuals with disabilities. Moving forward, I am keen to explore advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and natural language processing, to enhance the app's predictive and adaptive features. Additionally, I aim to delve deeper into strategies for maximizing user engagement and integration of 5 Proloquo2Go into daily routines, ultimately striving to optimize communication outcomes and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. References Balandin, S., Iacono, T., Stancliffe, R. J., & Probst, P. (2012). Using a speech-generating device to support the communicative interactions of children with autism spectrum disorders: A pilot study. *Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 15*(1), 49–58. https://doi.org/10.3109/17518423.2011.630909 O'Neill, T., Light, J., & Pope, L. (2018). Effects of a speech-generating device on the communicative interactions between a teenager with autism and her mother: A longitudinal single-case study. *Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 34*(3), 237–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/07434618.2018.1482477