Presenter
Sadie Davignon
Document Type
Prototype
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Selective Mutism (SM), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face consistent and situational challenges with verbal communication. Communication can also be difficult for individuals acquiring a new language, such as English language learners (ELL), many of whom experience SM during language acquisition. Current assistive and augmentative communication (AAC) technologies are often expensive, complex, and bulky. Many rely on sound output or visually obtrusive displays, making them unsuitable for users with sound aversion or for environments like classrooms. To address this need, this project incorporates AAC technology into a common wearable device, a standard lanyard with an identification holder/pocket. The prototype includes a small multicolor display housed in the ID holder and touch-sensing capacitive fabric pads along the lanyard straps. Users tap the pads to display customizable text or images, allowing the device to adapt to different communication needs. Tactile elements guide finger placement and improve memorability. Development focused on improving physical design and durability through integrated wiring, a structured housing system, and a rechargeable battery within the ID pocket. These modifications improve stability, ease of use, and discretion. By providing an on-demand, wearable AAC system, this work supports more accessible communication options for individuals who experience barriers to verbal expression.
Faculty Mentor
Nicole Urban, Ph.D.
Academic Discipline
College of Arts & Sciences
Repository Citation
Davignon, Sadie; Soares, Hailey; and Martinez, Kristen, "Wearable AAC Lanyard for Communication Support" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 291.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/291
