Abstract: It would be impossible (and not the intent of this paper) to conduct a comprehensive review of every communication application (app) that exists as of this writing. Rather, a clinical framework for comparing and selecting apps will be offered to assist speech-language pathologists in answering the popular question "What communication apps should we use?" While this platform and certain apps may indeed represent a reasonable match to the strengths and needs of some individuals, it is important that the needs of an individual be considered on a case-by-case basis using a thorough and clinically based approach. To this end, the clinical application of a chart detailing features believed to represent critical and fundamental considerations for a broad profile of people evidencing complex communication needs will be discussed and highlighted through case examples.
Authors: Howard Shane, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School and Children's Hospital Boston; Jessica Gosnell and John Costello, Children's Hospital Boston
Publication: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) - Perspectives on Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Date: August, 2011
