Exclusively for iPad
TapSpeak Choice
TapSpeak Choice is the first AAC app with the ability to use external switches. That opens it up to a wider audience. TapSpeak Choice can use RJ Cooper's iPad Cordless Super-Switch and iPad Switch Interface for external switches. You can use one or two switches for auto scanning and step scan and choose from an array of scanning options. (I am unable to test the 'switch' feature since I don't own a switch.)
Switches are generally needed for those who have greater motor skills challenges, so you can regard TapSpeak Choice as an app for those who are more affected by autism. But it's also appropriate for younger children. It's very customizable and very flexible!
The voice used in the app is very clear and very natural sounding. And it's clearly a young boy's voice. Of course, you can use your own voice if you like. For consistency that would entail editing each image used and re-recording over each one with the voice you want. That could be quite time consuming if you're using a large vocabulary in the app. But many augmentative and alternative communication apps require that process as part of customizing the app so it's most appropriate for the person using it.
Being able to drag and drop and move items around and reposition things, swipe up to get this, pull down here, swipe side to side there - that's what you get with this app; Ultra customization that takes full advantage of the iPad's intuitive interface.
The drag-n-drop and swiping setup is especially nice, and the idea behind it is GREAT. You'll want to practice swiping so you get a knack for it though, and the developer has included some very helpful tips regarding swiping on the app's website. TapSpeak Choice is loaded with settings. It's really adjustable on so many levels. And it makes better use of the multi-touch interface than any other AAC app, not just during setup, but also during use.
The DynaVox/Mayer-Johnson 4500 symbol core PCS library is included in this app and that's a huge bonus. That means clean, professional, consistent icons throughout. The PCS library of images uses nice artwork. You won't run out of images to use, but naturally, you can use your own if you want also.
Some apps you don't need a manual for - this one you do. It's online and it's easy to understand. I can't say enough about the importance of good manuals and online help. The entire TapSpeak line of apps have good manuals and online help, thanks to Ted Conley, the developer.
While I was customizing the app and creating my own board, and editing icons and stuff - TapSpeak Choice crashed on me a couple times. And, when it crashed, it reset all the options and settings I had customized which left me puzzled for a while as to why, when I touched my icons, none of them spoke to me. They just made a dull "ding" sound. But I figured it out a bit later after checking all the settings. That's a big problem and it makes the app unstable and unreliable. But I'm sure the developer will fix it soon and get an update released.
To go into edit mode in TapSpeak Choice you tap the title bar up top. As with any app that's going to be in children's hands, especially those with motor skills challenges, I think the settings should be comfortably tucked away in the iPad's own settings area, and that includes edit mode. Otherwise, anxious little fingers like my own son's will get in there and play around and jack-up the settings.
With its incredibly friendly interface and ease of use I see TapSpeak Choice being a top choice among AAC apps for people severely affected by autism. And when the issues I mentioned are taken care of... watch out! This will really be an AAC app to recon with.
