Welcome To Gateway to Language & Learning

Gateway^©, an augmentative communication app designed by Joan Bruno, Ph.D, CCC-SLP, is a research-based core word page set designed for severely speech-impaired children and adults who rely on technology to support their communication needs. It includes both symbol-based and text-based vocabularies that are combined with spelling and word prediction to accommodate the needs of both literate and non-literate users.

The Gateway App works within several widely used AAC App platforms including Proloquo2Go by Assistiveware, TouchChat HD by Saltillo, and the Compass software by Tobii Dynavox.   It offers a range of grid sizes ranging from 12 to 144 locations to accommodate users with varying physical and visual abilities. Each Gateway App includes a variety of User Vocabularies, often referred to as Page Sets, making it easier for parents and professionals to select the one that best meets the intended users abilities, needs and interests.

The Developing Language User is designed for preschool and school aged children. It includes core and fringe vocabulary that enables the child to successfully communicate at home, during play and to and to demonstrate mastery of core curriculum competences in classroom and literacy activities.

The Child and the Teen/Adult Functional Users have a consistent core vocabulary with fringe vocabulary focusing on sensory needs and functional activities making it a useful app for children with autism. It contains sentence development strips that ease the task of sentence formation and a Dictionary that provides easy access to a wide range of word categories. Its consistent vocabulary placement supports learning through motor planning.

The Advanced Communicator and Text Users target competent communicators for whom efficient communication is key. They provide easy access to spelling with word prediction and fringe vocabulary frequently used by teens and adults.

All of the Gateway Users include a set of “Theme” pages to support communication in predictable and recurring environments.  These pages can be used by young children to learn language within a structured context and by competent communicators to effectively communicate within the community.   A Quick Chat provides efficient access to frequently used comments, interjects and carrier phrases. A Dictionary enables direct access to words from a wide range of word categories. A “My Things” folder allows users to customize the page with their personal list of frequently used items.

A hallmark of Gateway’s design is its efficient organization. It enables message creation using less than 1.5 key selections per word. These features are critically important when communicating using an AAC app or device.

Do you have a question about the Gateway App? Call us at 732-737-4298 or email us today.