RESUMO
YolÅu, Aboriginal people from Arnhem Land, Australia are at risk of Machado-Joseph disease, with progressive loss of speech. YolÅu are interested in developing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems in their own languages. This research aimed to develop a culturally responsive process to explore and create a core vocabulary word list for YolÅu adults living with the disease for inclusion in AAC system prototypes. A list of 243 YolÅu words and morphemes was created. In this highly collaborative, mixed methods, participatory action research, Balanda (the YolÅu word for non-Aboriginal people) and YolÅu researchers conducted cycles of transcription and analysis of a language sample, with oral group discussions to identify which words to include, omit, or add, based on YolÅu perceptions of the structure and use of their languages. A YolÅu metaphor, Gulaka-buma ("Harvesting yams"), was identified by YolÅu researchers to represent and share the research process and findings. Three key themes were identified that summarize the main cultural and linguistic considerations related to changes made to the core vocabulary. Study findings emphasized the role of language as an expression of culture and identity for Indigenous peoples and the importance of considering cultural and linguistic factors in selecting vocabulary for AAC systems.
Assuntos
Auxiliares de Comunicação para Pessoas com Deficiência , Transtornos da Comunicação , Adulto , Humanos , Austrália , Povos Aborígenes Australianos e Ilhéus do Estreito de Torres , Idioma , VocabulárioRESUMO
YolÅu (Aboriginal Australians of northeast Arnhem Land) are interested in developing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems in their own languages to support communication opportunities and participation for their family members living with Machado-Joseph disease. Designing AAC systems in Aboriginal languages requires consideration of unique linguistic and cultural elements. Participatory action research in strength-based communication contexts was carried out by YolÅu and Balanda (the YolÅu word for non-Aboriginal people) researchers working together through a collaborative intercultural process. Culturally responsive literacy, language, and AAC activities were used to develop four prototype YolÅu AAC sytems for YolÅu with varied literacy skills. Data were coded using gerunds to identify and focus on action in the data. Reflective and analytical collaborative, oral group discussions were used to identify key considerations and, ultimately, a YolÅu metaphor for the research. YolÅu language, culture and worldview impacted all aspects of prototype design and decision making. Salient considerations related to representation, organization, layout, and access, are presented. Clinical implications and future research considerations are outlined.