Inclusive digital technologies for people with communication disabilities

Abstract

Suffering from communication disabilities limits a person's ability to participate in communicative and social interactions, public democratic debates and learning activities. The possibility of trying out ideas and opinions is weakened and it might have an impact on the ability to tell one's life story and to process inner thoughts. Consequently, it may affect the sufferer's self-understanding and lead to psychological problems. If it is not possible to find alternatives and compensation strategies for telling your story, presenting who you are, and participating in meaningful dialogues, it is likely that your intellectual level will gradually decrease. Advances in information and communication technologies (ICT), such as smartphones, tablets, and Internet connectivity, have contributed to the integration of many aspects of communication and learning strategies. Thus, new methods to enhance inclusion and empowering people with communication difficulties are offered. However, more knowledge about how learners with special challenges benefit from ICT in their communication and learning and what kind of technology that qualify rehabilitation is needed. Based on research with people suffering from aphasia after a brain injury this chapter will demonstrate how digital technologies can support sufferer's in acquiring some new ways to re-engage people in communicative relations and learning activities.