Voice Output Communication
Also known as speech-generating devices, allow an individual to select meanings to be spoken aloud by the device, to meet most of a person’s communication needs. These devices use letters, pictures, words, or phrases which can be selected in combination or alone in order to relay a certain message. The device will speak through a generated speech or a voice recording. Devices can range from simple to complex, with some allowing for an individual to create conversation with a partner using the device.
Touch Chat HD- AAC
Touch Chat HD- AAC is an application that can be used on an iPad. It is a full-featured communication app. It was designed for individuals who have Autism, Down Syndrome, ALS, apraxia, stroke and other conditions that affect a person’s ability to communicate using natural speech. The Touch Chat HD- AAC is intended to be used by people of all ages. This app has words, phrases and messages that are spoken using a built-in voice system or by playing previously recorded messages. This app has a total of 7 voices available for the user to choose from. The Touch Chat HD- AAC has a feature that allows the user to tilt the Ipad, and the message will enlarge to fill the screen. This allows the user to be able to communicate silently or in noisy environments. The app is designed using multiple page sets and speak messages. The page sets are liked and each page is divided into multiple buttons. Each button is programmed to complete different actions. For example, a button may be programmed to speak a message, move to a different page, change the volume or create a new display. The buttons are customized and can be rearranged on pages to suit the user. Buttons can be created using already programmed actions and pictures from the 10,000 Symbolstick symbols that come with the app; other pictures can also be used. The app comes with VocabPC, MultiChat-15, Primary and Spelling page sets. The Touch Chat HD- AAC is able to generate text and it can be shared on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, text message and email. Text created from other programs can be copied and spoken out loud and text created in Touch Chat can be copied to other vices. Files are able to be imported using iTunes or can be stored in iShare.
![Picture](/uploads/1/4/5/1/14519672/1425092.jpg?332)
Pros:
- Contains no mature or suggestive content
- Fits into the category of assistive technology known as Augmentative and Alternative
Communication (AAC)
- Includes features that were previously only available in more expensive communication devices
- 7 voices to choose from
- Can generate text and can share on Facebook, twitter, Tumblr, text message and email.
- Has a built in camera
- Over 30 button actions
- Over 10,000 Symbolstix symbols
- Files can be imported using iTunes
Cons:
- You have to have an iPad to use the app, which can range from $200-$500
- Only comes with 4 page sets and additional page sets can be purchased.
Use in the learning environment:
In the classroom, this could be a very versatile and beneficial application. A teacher who already uses an iPad in the classroom will be able to assist with using and implementing the device. Furthermore, other students may be familiar with an iPad and can also help the student with the application. It can be used in the classroom because it is lightweight, small, and easy to see with a large screen. It can be used in class discussion, circle-time, at lunch, or for social purposes with peers.
- Contains no mature or suggestive content
- Fits into the category of assistive technology known as Augmentative and Alternative
Communication (AAC)
- Includes features that were previously only available in more expensive communication devices
- 7 voices to choose from
- Can generate text and can share on Facebook, twitter, Tumblr, text message and email.
- Has a built in camera
- Over 30 button actions
- Over 10,000 Symbolstix symbols
- Files can be imported using iTunes
Cons:
- You have to have an iPad to use the app, which can range from $200-$500
- Only comes with 4 page sets and additional page sets can be purchased.
Use in the learning environment:
In the classroom, this could be a very versatile and beneficial application. A teacher who already uses an iPad in the classroom will be able to assist with using and implementing the device. Furthermore, other students may be familiar with an iPad and can also help the student with the application. It can be used in the classroom because it is lightweight, small, and easy to see with a large screen. It can be used in class discussion, circle-time, at lunch, or for social purposes with peers.
ECO 2
The ECO2 is an Alternative and Augmentative communication device that works alongside a Windows XP computer. The device has a large screen, with large buttons for easy selections for those with visual or motor challenges. This device has many features, such as the auditory prompts, to aid individuals with visual impairments. This device also has environmental control technology allowing it to control lights, TV and DVD players. The ECO2 has a variety of voices to choose from and has multiple methods of access. For example the users can use headpointing, mouse, joystick and switches with this device. The computer capabilities can be removed from the device in order to meet the needs of Medicare/Medicaid funding requirements.
![Picture](/uploads/1/4/5/1/14519672/8641803.jpg?263)
Pros:
- Fast processing speed
- “One touch” transition from commuting to speech output
- Large screen
- Large keys
- Pre programmed
- Multiple voices
- The computer capabilities can be removed from the device in order to meet the needs of Medicare/Medicaid funding requirements
Cons:
-Device is costly and can cost up to $8,000
- Fast processing speed
- “One touch” transition from commuting to speech output
- Large screen
- Large keys
- Pre programmed
- Multiple voices
- The computer capabilities can be removed from the device in order to meet the needs of Medicare/Medicaid funding requirements
Cons:
-Device is costly and can cost up to $8,000