Using NLG to help language-impaired users tell stories and participate in social dialogues

Abstract

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems are communication aids for people who cannot speak because of motor or cognitive impairments. We are developing AAC systems where users select information they wish to communicate, and this is expressed using an NLG system. We believe this model will work well in contexts where AAC users wish to go beyond simply making requests or answering questions, and have more complex communicative goals such as story-telling and social interaction.