AAC apps for aphasia: a pilot study on the role of intuition and learning

To characterize the untrained performance of people with aphasia (PWA) in finding symbols (single words) on two symbol-based augmentative and alternative communication applications (AAC apps).

Nine individuals with aphasia and no previous experience with AAC searched for five symbols on two grid display apps with differing representation systems and vocabulary (Proloquo2Go and Speak for Yourself) following a brief demonstration. Participants were allowed two minutes to locate each symbol on each app (Trial 1), following which the process was repeated with the same symbols (Trial 2) for both apps. Measured variables included total number of symbols found as well as average efficiency score, search time per symbol, and number of cell selections per second for successful trials. Participants were interviewed about their stated app preferences.

In the absence of training, participants performed significantly better using Proloquo2Go for average search time (p < .001), and rate of cell selection (p < .001). No significant differences were found across trials. Seven of the nine participants expressed a preference for Proloquo2Go.

Participant performance and stated preferences appeared to favour the layout found in Proloquo2Go, possibly suggestive of greater intuitiveness in the absence of training. However, significant learning was not observed across two trials, suggesting the importance of training and increased exposure.Implications for RehabilitationIndividuals who are diagnosed with aphasia may have long-term communication difficulties that require alternative means of communication.There are numerous commercially available augmentative and alternative communication applications (AAC apps) which may be beneficial for this population. However, there is limited research examining their usefulness.This study with a small sample of individuals with aphasia found that in the absence of training some apps may be easier to use than others.Additionally, the study found that learning may not occur in the absence of training highlighting the importance of treatment.