arXiv subjects

Blade Frisch

Publications and source records attributed to Blade Frisch.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

It's Complicated: On the Design and Evaluation of AI-Powered AAC Interfaces

Artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance what people who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) are able to do with their systems. However, evaluating AI-powered AAC interfaces can be difficult. People are intersectional beings and current evaluation metrics can struggle to capture the multifaceted and nuanced desires people may have for their AAC. We explore the complicated nature of six AAC problem spaces, explore how AI might be used in these spaces, and suggest more robust methods of evaluation that take the intersectional nuances of people into account. We also discuss broader issues that arise across these problem spaces and how they could be addressed using our proposed evaluation methods.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

The Role of AAC in Social Communication and Community Engagement: Experiences and Opinions of Autistic Adults

Little research has explored the communication needs of autistic adults. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can support these communication needs, but more guidance is needed on how to design AAC systems to support this population. We conducted an online, asynchronous, text-based focus group with five autistic adults to explore their social communication and community engagement and how AAC might support them. Our analysis found 1) participants' emotional experiences impact the communication methods they use, 2) speaking autistic adults can benefit from AAC use, and 3) autistic shutdown creates dynamic communication needs. We present implications for AAC interface design: supporting communication during shutdown, indicating communication ability, and addressing the fear of using AAC. We provide themes for future autism research: exploring the impact of a late diagnosis, understanding communication needs during shutdown, and researching the social and environmental factors that impact communication. Finally, we provide guidance for future online focus groups.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

Refining Participatory Design for AAC Users

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a field of research and practice that works with people who have a communication disability. One form AAC can take is a high-tech tool, such as a software-based communication system. Like all user interfaces, these systems must be designed and it is critical to include AAC users in the design process for their systems. A participatory design approach can include AAC users in the design process, but modifications may be necessary to make these methods more accessible. We present a two-part design process we are investigating for improving the participatory design for high-tech AAC systems. We discuss our plans to refine the accessibility of this process based on participant feedback.

cs.HC↗