Keeping an i on whats happening in the World of AAC Anna Reeves National AAC Coordinator

Just some of the reasons why NOT to choose an app for AAC There are over 150 dedicated communication devices and at least 40 different vocabulary sets Access options are comparatively limited The hardware has NOT been developed for AAC Evaluation of the apps does not have the wealth of evidence behind them that other AAC systems have Arguably an increased security risk

And theres more… Purchase and management of apps is complicated in a learning environment or in the health sector Challenges in use of device at home and at school Who is it for??? Anything else???

That said…. They are not going to disappear.. People are buying them any way.. They are relatively inexpensive, multi-functional, beautiful and cool The level and rate of investment and development is phenomenal For some individuals, they will meet their communication needs...

What makes a good app? Stable and reliable Consistent with the platform Loads fast No user interface hangups No ads Considers user as a valuable consumer Provides worthy functionality Easy to use Easy to navigate Be able to find information fast No crashes

Apps for AAC include.. Grids, e.g. Proloqou2Go, Talk Tablet, Tap Speak Choice, Sono Flex, My Choice Pad, Touch Chat HD, Go Talk Now, Grid Player, Yes- No Talking Photos, e.g. Pictello, Click n Talk, Scene & Heard Text, e.g. Predictable, Verbally, iMean, Easy Speak Picture exchange, e.g. Grace, Picture Can Talk, iPrompts

Accessibility Protection of the hardware and software Touch enabling Amplification Mounting Assistive Touch features in iOS 5 Switch access Integration with power chair

Aroob…