PRV161: SWIFTSPEAK: AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC)

AMIRAH AQILAH MOHD AKHSAN KOLEJ POLY-TECH MARA BANGI

This project presents the development of SWIFTSPEAK, a user-friendly communication tool designed to assist non-verbal individuals with severe autism in conveying essential needs such as eating, sleeping, and toileting. Utilizing the ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) instructional design framework, SWIFTSPEAK was meticulously developed to address the specific communication challenges faced by this population. The tool features a colour-coded button interface that triggers notifications to caregivers' smartphones, enabling timely responses to the user's needs. The development process incorporated advanced technologies, including Arduino microcontrollers, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and 3D design patterns, to ensure a robust and intuitive user experience. A pilot study demonstrated the effectiveness of SWIFTSPEAK in enhancing communication and reducing frustration for non-verbal autistic individuals and their caregivers. This research highlights the importance of early intervention and accessible communication tools in improving the lives of individuals with severe autism. Future development plans include refining the device's durability, expanding its features, and exploring broader applications in educational settings.