The device allows the user to press a button with a customizable picture to play a customizable sound file, and logs use to enable caregivers to monitor progress and adapt the device buttons. It has 10 large picture buttons. When a button is pressed, a speaker will play a pre-recorded word or phrase, and the use will be recorded to allow parents and educators to track communication progress. One button allows playing longer segments such as music. Pictures and sounds will be customizable so that the device remains useful as the user progresses, with a PC-side program allowing uploading of sounds to and downloading of logs from the device.
Her challenge is to create a device that will enable Sharlene to communicate her basic needs verbally at school and elsewhere. Existing assistive devices are proprietary, with affordable options offering little customization and no ability to log use for review by caregivers. Smartphones are fragile and distracting, especially for young children.
Sharlene has autism spectrum disorder, she thinks visually, and has difficulty expressing basic needs verbally. This makes communication and group environments challenging for them.
The build files for Sharlene Speaks are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.
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