Communication aid for neurodiverse learner
Background
This project is a vision project grounded in preliminary research within the Logitech EDU team pertaining to the adaptive needs of students. With a focus on neurodiverse student facing communication challenges, especially students on the autism spectrum.
Team
Product Designer (Me)
Industrial / CMS Designer
Timeline
9 Weeks
Contribution
Self-directed project, led the user research and SW prototyping stage.
Tools
Figma, Figjam, AE, Blender
*For NDA reasons, this is a high level overview. For full case study, please reach out to f@fangfan.me
Since the pandemic,
There has been a significant surge in Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)* device need. Due to:
Delayed development due to isolation
Earlier referral for AAC assessments
Rising demand for alternative communication methods
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It encompasses a wide range of products to suit individual needs. This project specifically examined high-tech picture symbol systems(speech device, AAC app etc) where learners use symbols instead of words to communicate, which is the most widely used AAC method.
While there have been technology advancements, assistive tech remains relatively slow.
Methodology:
I took a human first approach through out the research and ideation process
Indepth user/stakeholder interviews
Insight & trend finding
Team ideation workshop
Concepts <-> insight alignment
Concept validation workshop with stakeholders
Low to high fidelity prototype
Trend
There's a "High tech first trend" among AAC user.
Speech pathologists are starting learners early with high tech to establish familiarity and build habits. Start early with iPad can help the learner get used to the system and interaction model and ipad as a versatile tool, it expose learner to a richer learning experience, Like use it for other course materials, AAC games, even youtube to spark the interest for learner to communicate and gave equal chance as their neurotypical peers.
However,
Learners often face challenges and lose momentum to make AAC their extension of their voice because:
1
Full AAC apps feels too complicated & overwhelming. The complexity of Full AAC apps is challenging for learner’s to grasp when starting, and demanding for the IEP team members facilitation.
2
Breaching from communication purpose. iPad's versatility can lead to distractions in educational settings, leading to restricted app use and students carrying multiple devices.
3
The form factor limit for AAC use across different locations and activities. iPad’s form factor make it hard to hold in some situation, prohibits learners to use it consistently outside of class.
Key features that
Makes the experience powerful
1
Mode-based keywords in your palm.
Each mode has a set of words/phrases that the learner can access at any point of the day and is just a click away. These symbol are imported from learner's primary AAC so they can use the message they are familiar with. These modes are curated by the speech pathologist who work with learner on daily bais.
2
Conversation assist
Experience on-the-go access and seamless accessory swapping. Dive deeper into full conversations with a simple tap of the programmable button in any mode, effortlessly switching to the main AAC device. Elevate learner's communication effortlessly.
3
Shared, intuitive control
The device is designed for educators and parents to easily aid the learner's communication growth. With a seamless interaction model between devices, this system can be customized by any team member whenever necessary.
Lastly,
Learning from this project:
1
Think deeper. Grasp the underlying meaning and intent behind an observation. Probing another layer of "why" will unveil a more profound underlying theme.
2
Tell a story. T to make my point, to get buy-in, to drive co-creation. To coworkers, to stakeholders, to the team and the leadership.
3
Be brave. Designer need to be adaptable, framework offers a starting point, looking beyond it and try different things that your guts take you will yield to surprising result!
