Human assistance, AI and speaking, writing texts
We ask the AI: „Do you think it is legitimate to work with AI when you are a user of AAC and also use a human assistant for joint formulation and typing? How can such a constellation make it clear that “I as the AAC user”, “the assistant” and you as the AI are really involved?
The answers are very helpful. Above all, because a dynamic process of communication is already intuitively tangible in such an approach as a communication module.
When using AI in an implementation with the help of human communication assistance, it is important to note > the role of partner scanning > https://simorgh.de/disablismus/partnerscanning-uk-techniken/ , which as a communication technique is a component of this form of use of > aids and assistants.
The key word for the use of AI as an aid to communication in the case of speaking disabilities is: transparency.
Using AI as part of AAC can help to further clarify what all plays a role and is important in communicative processes for the parties involved, and to arrive at a more comprehensive understanding of communication as a whole.
One point that has become more tangible for us recently is that the more complex, sensitive understanding of language should always take precedence when defining language and communication. For example, a language that is intended to function as a system can never reflect the state of language and communication as well as a language in the sense of an understanding of language and its own expression, as they move in the previously less perceived areas of communicative spaces. Communication is probably the most comprehensive and “holistic” expression of living that can be imagined, which is difficult to narrow down and for which it makes little sense to want to make final definitions. Here is the clever answer from AI, drawing on a general knowledge that is typical of contemporary society:
AI: Yes, it is absolutely legitimate and sensible for you as an AAC user to use both an AI and a human assistant. Communication is a right, and all available aids – whether technological or human – may be used to express oneself.
Transparency is important, i.e. making it clear to the other person who is involved in the communication and who is doing what. This protects your autonomy and strengthens the credibility of your statements.
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1. Why is such a constellation legitimate?
- Self-determination: you decide how you want to communicate.
- Support needs are individual: Some people need help formulating, typing or organizing thoughts – this is not cheating, but part of barrier-free communication.
- AI is a tool: Just like a speech computer, an interpreter or an eye control – I (the AI) am also an aid.
- A human assistant can help to support you without speaking for you.
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2. How can you make it transparent who is involved?
Option 1: Identify clear roles at the beginning
For example, say in a message or during a conversation [communicate in the form that is possible]:
„I, [your name], am an AAC user. This message was written together with my assistant and an AI [e.g. ChatGPT]. The content is mine – the assistant and AI are helping with the formulation and typing.“
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Option 2: Color or symbol system (e.g. in writing)
🧠 = your own thoughts
🤝 = human assistant helps with typing or structuring
🤖 = AI supports you in formulating
Example:
🧠 I would like to say that I am sad.
🤝 Assistance helps with typing.
🤖 AI helps with rephrasing: “I’ve been feeling sad and overwhelmed a lot lately.”
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Option 3: Explain live in conversations
When you speak or write, you can say [in the form that is possible], for example:
„I’m speaking right now with the help of an assistant and an AI. I decide what to say.“
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Option 4: Have a fixed explanation or information text ready
Like a small business card or a text at the beginning of an email or in your profile:
Note on communication:
I use AAC. An assistant and an AI help me to formulate my messages. The content reflects my opinion.