My Voice is Me

Coordinator - Lucy Lowson (Glossa) – Speech and   Language Therapist 

Participants - David Mason (Toby Churchill) -   Communication Aid Developer and Producer,   Alan Martin (Mouse on the Move) - uses AAC for communication, Gill Main (NHS) -  Speech and Language Therapist and Graham Pullin (University of   Dundee) - Interaction Designer

Outline - “My Voice is Me” is a group of   people from a variety of backgrounds who have links with the use of artificial   voices via communication aids.  The   term often used to describe communication aids is AAC (Alternative and   Augmentative Communication) devices.

Our project focused on the production of a   short video that seeks to draw people’s attention to the question: ”My voice   is…..?” The video is to be shown as a rolling loop of 2 minutes duration.  It begins by enticing the viewer to consider   how artificial voices can be used by someone who, for a variety of reasons,   may not have a voice of their own.    Quotes from AAC users are shown on the screen and read aloud by a   ‘real’ artificial voice that is actively used in a communication aid at present.

The video then challenges the viewer’s own   perception of what their voice means to them and features Lee Ridley, A   Stand-up Comedian who uses AAC as his mode of expression, to help explore   this concept.  The video highlights the   meaning of ‘voice’ to those who use artificial voices as their mode of   speaking, using Lee’s particular dramatic use as a demonstration of diversity.

Outcome - After watching the video, viewers   are encouraged to complete a ‘speech bubble’ and write in it what their voice   means to them.  These are displayed on   the exhibit and will be used to explore common themes following the   culmination of the roadshow and to inform future research. 

Contact - For any further information please contact – [email protected]