Designing AAC Systems for Children with Autism: Evidence from Eye Tracking Research. (June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gillespie-Smith, Karri; Fletcher-Watson, Sue
• Is Part Of: Augmentative and alternative communication. Volume 30:Number 2(2014)
• Page Start: 160
• Page End: 171
• Publication Date: 2014-06
• Subjects: AAC -- Autism -- Gaze behaviour -- Eye tracking -- Communication -- Language disorders; People with disabilities -- Means of communication -- Periodicals; Communication devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.85503
• DOI: 10.3109/07434618.2014.905635
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0743-4618

Abstract

Abstract: Autism is associated with a range of language difficulties that impact communication, behaviour management, and education. Consequently, a variety of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies may be employed to support people with autism to communicate. There is a growing body of evidence concerning the visual attention of individuals with autism, which may be relevant to AAC interventions. This review draws on evidence from eye tracking research specifically to inform the design of AAC systems for people with autism. In addition, we discuss the future of AAC for individuals with autism in light of relevant technological developments, and raise questions for future research.