Florida State University (FSU) has secured a $5 million federal grant to pioneer AI-enhanced communication tools for children with speech disabilities. This five-year collaborative project focuses on developing innovative assistive technology for educational settings, including classrooms and playgrounds. Researchers, led by associate professors Andrea Barton-Hulsey and Michelle Therrien, are observing interactions to create effective tools that promote communication and social inclusion among children with and without disabilities. The initiative emphasizes the significance of environments like playgrounds, where social interaction is crucial. Feedback from adults who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices will inform the development process, ensuring the final products are practical and relevant. By addressing both academic and social communication needs, FSU aims to transform how children with speech challenges interact, potentially influencing assistive technology practices nationwide. This groundbreaking research underscores FSU’s commitment to enhancing communication for diverse learners.
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