A computerized communication message preparation program that “learns” the user's vocabulary

This article describes the evaluation of an efficient augmentative and alternative communication program for a microcomputer that considers the features of speed, flexibility, expense, and vocabulary preparation time. The program uses frequency-based prediction algorithms and menu selection to reduce word cost while maintaining complete vocabulary flexibility. Two studies of how this program affected word cost and a third study in which the program was field tested with an augmentative communication user are repotted. The research highlights the interdependence of word cost and selection time in determining communication rate.