Trap Hunting: Finding Personal Data Management Issues in Next Generation AAC Devices

Advances in natural language generation and speech processing techniques, combined with changes in the commercial landscape, have brought within reach dramatic improvements in Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC). These improvements, though overwhelmingly positive, amplify a family of personal data use problems. This paper argues that the AAC design and implementation process needs to identify and address personal data use problems. Accordingly, this paper explores personal data management problems and proposes responses. This paper is situated in the context of AAC technology but the responses could be generalised for other communities affected by low digital literacy, low literacy levels and cognitive challenges.