It has been a great opportunity and learning experience working on this AAC apps Analyst Report. As EVAs, we have a responsibility to understand all the relevant factors of the learning technology and make recommendations to the investor on whether the initiative will be viable or not. Joseph examined and reviewed the BC Ministry of Education’s Mandate Letter and Service Plan. Joyce explored and learned about different AAC apps, perceptions of AAC, and AAC competencies. Together we discussed and used the analytical framework of the cube to describe this learning technology initiative of supporting the inclusion of AAC users in the school system within BC.
Through our analysis, Joseph gained a deeper appreciation of the obligations placed upon the Minister and Ministry of Education. As the Ministry with BC's second-largest budget expenditure, Joseph recognizes that the Ministry of Education holds great responsibility to both its learners and tax-payers. Joyce gained more knowledge on AAC apps for mobile devices and believes that this initiative is both valuable and potentially viable. Having personal experience and a connection with the special needs community, Joyce is excited about the power of AAC apps in helping nonverbal and minimally verbal individuals within the K-12 education system to communicate and participate more.
We chose to research and share about AAC apps for mobile devices. Since it is up to individual users to trial and decide which AAC app works best for them, we felt it was best to present more than one AAC app so that the investor can get a better understanding of how different AAC apps can be used to meet the needs of different users. The five AAC apps that were chosen were the preferred choices based on our personal experiences and through conversations with special needs organizations and families.
We also learned about what it takes for a venture to work and be sustainable. The creators of the AAC apps have passion for helping those who have speech challenges to have a voice and be able to express themselves. These creators have the capability, knowledge, and expertise in developing and maintaining the viability of AAC apps.
As we worked on the completion of this Analyst Report, an evidence-based summary was prepared on how this venture idea provides good value for the investor. In addition, we recognized that there is a market need for this venture idea in Assignment #3. We are both passionate advocates for the special needs community and believe we can be changemakers. The need and market for AAC support is great, as there is a large number of students with complex communication needs who lack the supports that they require. For the BC Ministry of Education to achieve the goals listed within its Mandate Letter and Service Plan, it is integral for them to provide education for communication so that everyone has a voice.