Monica Bhyrappa - Logitech

Communication aid for neurodiverse learners

Vision project - internship

Logitech | 2023 | 9 weeks

2 member team

Team

ID/CMF designer - Me

UX designer - Fan Fang

Background

This project is a vision project grounded in preliminary research within the Logitech EDU team catering to the adaptive needs of students. With a focus on neurodiverse students facing communication challenges, especially students on the autism spectrum.

Contribution

Led the Self-directed Primary+Secondary research, Product conceptualisation, 3D modelling + Visualisation, Prototyping

*For NDA reasons, this is a high-level overview.

Since the Pandemic,

There has been a significant surge in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)* device requirements due to

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and alternative communication. It encompasses a wide range of products to suit individuals' needs.

AACs are intended to build communication competence, allowing learners to,

• Communicate their needs

• Participate in classes

• Socialize with peers

More than 2 million children and adults use AAC to communicate daily.

This Project specifically looked at picture symbol system where learner use symbol instead of words to communicate. This is the most widely used for the age group we are targeting.

While there have been technology advancements, assistive tech remains relatively slow.

Methodology

We took the human-first approach throughout the research and ideation process.

Main Takeaways

Learners often face challenges and lose momentum to make AAC their extension of their voice because:

1. Full AAC apps feel too complicated & overwhelming.

The complexity of Full AAC apps is challenging for learners to grasp when starting, and demanding for the IEP team member's facilitation.

2. Breaching from communication purpose.

iPad's versatility can lead to distractions in educational settings, leading to restricted app use and students carrying multiple devices.

3. The form factor limits AAC use across different locations and activities.

iPad’s form factor makes it hard to hold in some situations and prohibits learners from using it consistently outside of class.

The hunch

HMW support learners to ease in and use high-tech AAC devices consistently, ensuring they reach their full potential in communication skill?

A Powerful experience

The Key features

1. Portability at its best

Interchangeable accessories allow learners to integrate the product into their daily lives seamlessly.

2. Mode-based keywords in your palm

Each mode has a set of words/phrases that the learner can access at any point of the day and is just a click away. These symbols are imported from learner's primary AAC(tablet/iPad) so they can use the message they are familiar with. These modes are curated by the speech pathologist who work with learner on daily bais.

3. Shared, Intuitive controls

The device is designed for educators and parents to easily aid the learner's communication growth. With a seamless interaction model between devices, this system can be customized by any team member whenever necessary.

4. Sensory-Friendly CMF

The objective is to make it visually less stimulating (muted colors, greys), easily distinguishable controls and minimal texture. Explorations around the EDU core and accent colours to find the perfect learner-friendly colour combinations.