Designing augmentative and alternative communication systems with Aboriginal Australians: Vocabulary representation, layout, and access

Rebecca Amery, Julie Gungungbuy Wunungmurra, Gurimaŋu Bukuḻatjpi, Rachel Dikul Baker, Farrah Gumbula, Elah Yunupingu, Parimala Raghavendra, Ruth Barker, Deborah Theodoros, Howard Amery, Libby Massey, Anne Lowell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
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Abstract

Yolŋu (Aboriginal Australians of northeast Arnhem Land) are interested in developing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems in their own languages to support communication opportunities and participation for their family members living with Machado–Joseph disease. Designing AAC systems in Aboriginal languages requires consideration of unique linguistic and cultural elements. Participatory action research in strength-based communication contexts was carried out by Yolŋu and Balanda (the Yolŋu word for non-Aboriginal people) researchers working together through a collaborative intercultural process. Culturally responsive literacy, language, and AAC activities were used to develop four prototype Yolŋu AAC sytems for Yolŋu with varied literacy skills. Data were coded using gerunds to identify and focus on action in the data. Reflective and analytical collaborative, oral group discussions were used to identify key considerations and, ultimately, a Yolŋu metaphor for the research. Yolŋu language, culture and worldview impacted all aspects of prototype design and decision making. Salient considerations related to representation, organization, layout, and access, are presented. Clinical implications and future research considerations are outlined.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)221-235
Number of pages15
JournalAugmentative and Alternative Communication
Volume38
Issue number4
Early online date8 Nov 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
The research team would like to acknowledge and thank participants for giving their time and sharing their knowledge. The researchers would also like to thank the MJD Foundation for their ongoing financial and logistical support.

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