Understanding Covert Speech: Experiences with and Usability of Covert Speech for AAC Systems

Abstract

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems are communication options for individuals who cannot reliably communicate verbally. The use of AAC systems allows individuals to grow relationships and enhance participation in societal activities. The use of covert, or inner, speech has the potential to be an intuitive communication method when decoded with a brain computer interface (BCI) and used as an AAC method. However, the most prominent theories on the development of inner speech neglect populations with disabilities. The purpose of this study is to gain insight into covert speech experiences of individuals with motor and communication disabilities or who use augmentative and alternative communication devices as their main form of communication. Through surveying, we seek to understand whether individuals with motor and communication disabilities use covert speech when processing commands and if covert speech can be decoded from BCI interface signals and used for AAC systems.