Although pricier than most 'apps' through iTunes, the Proloquo2Go offers most if not all of the features available in existing augmentive communication devices costing several thousand dollars. While many individuals are challenging their insurance providers to cover well-researched and sturdy A.A.C. machines, too often people with language or speech challenges are not able to qualify. The expense may discourage school speech and language disorder specialists from recommending augmentative communication devices for most students who would benefit from their use.
Having programmed four different dedicated devices over the years for my son to use, watching the videos of a device with Proloquo2Go being explored and individualized is quite impressive. There have also been good anecdotal reports of timely responses to questions and suggestions via Proloquo2Go support services.
Individuals who require dedicated devices that are activated through less controlled hand movements, blinking or breathing may someday be able to use products in the mainstream marketplace through the development of software applications like Proloquo2Go.
Today, almost everyone who can work an iPod Touch or iPhone is better able to connect intellectually and socially with their classmates, teachers, families and coworkers using the Proloquo2Go application. It would be a great benefit to share information provided by the developer as well as reviews from families, tech and AAC experts at your local or regional parent support group and advocacy newsletters. Someone in your family or circle of friends may have upgraded to a newer iPod Touch and would be glad to 'recycle' their original so your son or daughter can try it out. Local service groups or your school PTA may be interested in providing grants to purchase the device or the Proloquo2Go app for local students or classrooms.
Reading or watching more information about assistive communication devices and software like the Proloquo2Go app can help families create better low tech, low expense alternatives for our sons and daughters with special needs. As always, the best communication support we can give to individuals is to provide interested listeners.
Browse at your public library, local bookstore or online retailer for more information on Assistive Technology for Communication
and read about the The iPod Touch; but beware of third party sellers offering iTunes gift cards - they may be available at your neighborhood discount stores for equal or less than the face value. Please be vigilant about double checking 'handling' costs and other fees when ordering anything online. Proloquo2Go Home Page - AAC in Your Pocket
http://www.proloquo2go.com/
Proloquo2Go Community forum - exchange experiences and ideas with Proloquo2Go users and others involved with Proloquo2Go - Also, FAQ
http://www.proloquo2go.com/Support/article/community-discussion
The Unofficial Apple Web Log (TUAW) Review (Thank You Terri Mauro)
http://www.tuaw.com/2009/10/21/proloquo2go-assistive-communication-for-the-iphone-and-ipod-tou/
Australia - Sign Language blog (via the Down Syndrome Discussion Group)
http://aboutsignlanguage.blogspot.com/2009/06/proloquo2go-on-ipod-touch-or-iphone.html
Video Links
http://aboutsignlanguage.blogspot.com/2009/07/proloquo2go-on-ipod-touch-or-iphone.html
The updated Proloquo2Go features and Asia Pacific Autism Conference
http://aboutsignlanguage.blogspot.com/2009/08/proloquo2go-on-ipod-touch-or-iphone-no2.html
Local AAC evaluation centers are invited to join the Proloquo2Go Resource Centers program
http://www.proloquo2go.com/resources/article/us-resource-centers
Clicking on links to Amazon.com in this article is (slightly) supportive of this website - but whenever possible support your local community by buying in your neighborhood, or browsing at your local library. If you do choose to make a purchase at Amazon.com, thank you for your support.
A reader recently informed me of an AAC app called Voice4u that is available in Japanese as well as English characters: http://tinyurl.com/Vc4uAp
I have not seen a review or discussion of it except those written by sales reps, but it looks interesting, too.
I have recently purchased an iPod Touch and am considering AAC apps, that would also be purchased with personal funds.
http://www.bellaonline.com/misc/ethics.asp
