Desenvolvimento de um sistema multiplataforma de Comunicação Aumentativa e Alternativa com aplicação da análise de usabilidade

Abstract

Communication is an essential human right, recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), and it is through communication that other human rights are effective. However, many people have communicative restrictions, either due to congenital disabilities obtained before or from birth or due to disabilities acquired throughout life. In this context, the research focused on the area of Assistive Technology (AT), specifically on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for people who have had difficulty with speech. Despite the importance of communication for the expression and socialization of each person, we noted that most AAC resources do not contemplate the individualities of each user, have a high cost, and are not very attractive. The aim is to develop a multiplatform AAC system and validate it through usability analysis performed by professionals who work with people with Complex Communicative Needs (CCN). We justified this because it contributes to a more equitable and inclusive society through the possibilities and technological solutions offered to reduce limitations generated by different disabilities and equalize the possibilities. Based on this gap, this thesis aims to answer the following question: is it possible to develop an AAC resource for people with communicative impossibilities who are adaptable to the particularities and different contexts of social interaction? Methodologically, we did a literature review, with a set of papers previously selected for their relevance to research detailing developments and tests carried out in the field of AAC, our theoretical contribution. The development of the multiplatform system is specific through the analysis of the system's architecture and the comparison with the previous version of the system, called Bela Tagarela 1.0. For the usability analysis of the proposed system, a detailed description of the system validation process is carried out, such as the validation process together with the Ethics Committee, the selection of the participants, the protocol adopted in the sessions, and the questionnaires used. In conclusion related to the analysis of the results achieved present the multiplatform system Bela Tagarela 2.0 in its versions for mobile, online, and desktop devices. Next, the validation study of the developed system continued, covering the responses of 114 participants. We analyzed the profiles of the participants, the metrics of experience and satisfaction with the use of the system, the usability tests, the evaluation of the usability scale, and the suggestions presented by the participants were analyzed. We concluded that Bela Tagarela 2.0 is an attractive and simple-to-use AAC system capable of offering more than communication assistance, providing social interaction, and encouraging the independence of people who need this resource.