Table 1.

Components of AI with common examples and some opportunities and precautions associated with integrating AI with AAC.

Component	Definition	Mainstream Example	Some AAC Opportunities	Some AAC Precautions
Knowledge Representation and Reasoning	The process of organizing information in a way that a computer can understand and use reasoning to make automated decisions	Classification systems, diagnostic engines, and prediction systems	Augmented intelligence such as personalized AAC assessment and language knowledge and skill building	Bias in assessment and prediction could create discrimination (e.g., AAC misconceptions could become part of the model, such that AAC could artificially hold a person with complex communication needs back by limiting their opportunities)
Machine Learning	Capability of a program to learn patterns and themes from data and apply that knowledge to other data	Many recommender and prediction algorithms used in entertainment apps and search engines	Customized word-prediction, custom speech synthesis (voices), tuning/ calibration of alternative access systems	Ability to manage/curate training and learning systems
Computer Vision	Combines components of AI to process images and make decisions about them	Identification of objects, navigation	Automated visual-scene displays, vocabulary capture tools	Privacy regarding photos and facial recognition
Natural Language Processing	Ability to process and generate human-like text or speech based on knowledge of previous uses of language	Spam filters, smart assistants, word prediction on mobile devices	Word- and message-prediction, automated storytelling, voice recognition of dysarthric speech	Autonomy and individuality compromises if AI systems cannot be checked manually by users (e.g., inappropriate vocabulary choices yielded via predication during visit to preschool versus out with friends)
Robotics	A physical agent that can move about and interact with its environment	Industrial robots for manufacturing, social robots for interaction	Social robots and robot-assisted learning; intelligent powered mobility	Awareness of the role of human interaction and conversation in social development