Interacting with smart virtual assistants for individuals with dysarthria: a comparative study on usability and user preferences

Jaddoh, Aisha, Loizides, Fernando ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0531-6760, Rana, Omer ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3597-2646 and Syed, Yasir Ahmed ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9495-307X 2024. Interacting with smart virtual assistants for individuals with dysarthria: a comparative study on usability and user preferences. Applied Sciences 14 (4) , 1409. 10.3390/app14041409

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Abstract

This study explores the effectiveness and user experience of different interaction methods used by individuals with dysarthria when engaging with Smart Virtual Assistants (SVAs). It focuses on three primary modalities: direct speech commands through Alexa, non-verbal voice cues via the Daria system, and eye gaze control. The objective is to assess the usability, workload, and user preferences associated with each method, catering to the varying communication capabilities of individuals with dysarthria. While Alexa and Daria facilitate voice-based interactions, eye gaze control offers an alternative for those unable to use voice commands, including users with severe dysarthria. This comparative approach aims to determine how the usability of each interaction method varies, conducted with eight participants with dysarthria. The results indicated that non-verbal voice interactions, particularly with the Daria system, were favored because of their lower workload and ease of use. The eye gaze technology, while viable, presented challenges in terms of the higher workload and usability. These findings highlight the necessity of diversifying interaction methods with SVAs to accommodate the unique needs of individuals with dysarthria.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Computer Science & Informatics
Publisher:	MDPI
ISSN:	2076-3417
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	21 February 2024
Date of Acceptance:	6 February 2024
Last Modified:	21 Feb 2024 11:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/166371

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