In a joint effort with Klaus Petersen from RECIT E-Learning lab is evaluating the project “Face to face – distance education of aphasia struck persons”. The project attached to the speech institute in the county of North Jutland is supported by the Digital North Denmark. The overall objectives are the following:

- testing and investigation of effects of use of a synchronic image communication system, both as method in retraining of language and as an alternative way of communicating for the aphasia struck person
- promoting access and accessibility to IT for the aphasia struck person

The project’s concrete form
Concretely, the objectives are tried to be reached by means of a group of aphasia struck persons, who has been referred to join the project. After that, a PC with the image communication system Picture Tel, which is bought from the project partner Siemens, has been set up in their homes. Afterwards, part of retraining of language has taken place at the PC. Partly, by means of synchronic communication with sound and image between teacher and participant, and partly, by self-tuition starting from teaching materials installed on the PC, or which have been sent from the teacher.

Problem field
The project’s problem field includes three elements; aphasia, technology and method.

First of all, the purpose is to gain an understanding of the single participant’s difficulties in relation to language with the intention of offering the most suitable method and most suitable technology for learning and communication. Besides, it is expected that the project will open the possibility to follow the participants and support their learning process for a longer period than before.

At this starting point, potential and limitation of technology are estimated, corresponding to increase the participants’ opportunities for communication and learning. Thus, the point is, if there is access to technology in general, and also accessibility is considered in relation to the single person’s handicap and previous experience with IT.

Finally, the question is how teaching is organized in relation to the single participant’s situation and within the capacity of technology. It is expected that this phase will open up the possibility to work with multiple ways of training.

To learn more about the “Face to face” project download the final evaluation report Face-to-face.