AT Research

AT Research Conversations  -  

Our “Conversations” on research topics will involve webinars presented by researchers and practitioners as well as discussion groups at conferences, and collections of research articles on this site.  Check this website for new webinars or events to be scheduled.

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Previous AT Research Conversations  -

Abstract:  Designing Effective Technologies Through the Use of Personas:  As Developed in AAC Research and at Microsoft

Join the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Research Committee for a discussion of the development and application of user descriptions, or user personalities, to help guide in the design of effective technologies and user interfaces. For individuals with disabilities this can lead to the incorporation of adaptive strategies that can result in improved product performance.

Personas are frequently developed for use in product design, especially for consumer-based products and user interfaces. A user persona consists of the goals, values and behavior of a group based on the behavior patterns of individuals. Dr. Higginbotham will address using personas of individuals with ALS for use in designing new AAC technologies and AAC interfaces. Annuska Perkins will talk about Microsoft’s approach to using inclusive personas. She will address the benefits and challenges of applying personas throughout the software development lifecycle.
 

Jeff Higginbotham, Ph.D. CCC/SLP Dir. Center for Excellence in Augmented Communication, Professor, University of Buffalo
Annuska Perkins, Microsoft Accessible Technology Group

ARCHIVE FOR "Designing Effective Technologies Through the Use of Personas:  As Developed in AAC Research and at Microsoft"    -  There is no fee for this archive.

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Abstract:    Designing Effective AAC Technologies for Beginning Communicators

To date, there are few guidelines to support clinicians and manufacturers in the design of effective AAC systems for beginning communicators. When AAC systems are well designed, they may enhance communication and language outcomes for beginning communicators with complex communication needs. However, poorly-designed AAC systems may potentially interfere with language learning and communication effectiveness. In this session, we will discuss guidelines for the design of effective AAC technologies for beginning communicators with complex communication needs, including infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome) as well as older individuals with significant cognitive impairments. The session will present research results from recent studies and will suggest clinical guidelines to improve the design of AAC systems based on these research results.

ATIA and the National Center for Technology Innovation have teamed up to develop a Research Primer for AT developers,  The Assistive Technology Research Matters is an interactive document which will provide guidance to individuals and companies on how to start or expand research activities.  It will discuss supports that are available and how to begin with limited staff capacity.
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In conjunction with the launch of the Assistive Technology Research Matters resources, NCTI and ATIA hosted a series of free webinars to explore these topics. 
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Research Tools -