Community Impact
Participants play a vital role in the ETHEREAL Research Group‘s groundbreaking work. Their unique experiences, perspectives, and insights drive the development of assistive technologies designed to meet the needs of nonspeaking autistic individuals. By contributing to this research, participants not only improve the tools being created but also challenge societal perceptions, advocate for inclusivity, and promote independence. They are at the heart of this work, ensuring the solutions developed truly empower and give voice to those who have long been underrepresented.
Geoff Ondrich
I think it’s important to participate in assistive technology research
because it gives the researchers feedback so they can adjust their style of technology
so it will help me and my friends become part of society.
I feel that the ethereal group are the most beautiful people on the planet.
They treat us with respect and they look at us when they talk to us.
My heart is filled with love for them and I wish them every success.
My experience has been very positive, and I feel like I have a future.
Great ideas take time to come to fruition.
My deepest respect goes out to the ethereal group
Eric Herzog
Technology supports my goal to be independent.
I started spelling on a letterboard and now type on a keyboard.
I like hearing my voice this way.
The HoloBoard excites me most because it is another step towards independence.
I could learn to spell with minimal support.
This would greatly increase my quality of life.”
John Horner
“I enjoy trying new things”
“In sessions the team is very kind and helpful”
“I like having an independent voice”
Luke Verhoeff
The science has since proven that nonspeakers have for long been silenced.
The greatest thing to everyone is access to other forms of communication.
Everyone has the human right to voice their thoughts.
Understanding nonspeakers is one of the easiest ways to indirectly help those around them.
Technology assistive programs need those who access them, to be a part of the process.
Rumi
Question: What was your experience participating in research?
Rumi: It made me feel like my voice mattered.
Question: Why is that important to you?
Rumi: Society often ignores non-speakers and I am determined to change that.
Question: how has your experience been positive?
Rumi: Everytime I meet with the team they are kind and supportive.
Question: Any other comments?
Rumi: This research will help change perceptions of non-speakers.
Jana Abufarha
Question: Jana what is your experience participating in research?
Jana: changed my world
Question: how so?
Jana: show my true heart
Question: what have you been able to show us?
Jana: i’m smart
Question: why/how has the research been positive?
Jana: opens many doors
Question: what doors do you want opened?
Jana: university
Join our Research
Are you a nonspeaking autistic person looking to make a difference? Participate in our research at the ETHEREAL Lab! Your participation is essential—we can’t do this work without you. By sharing your experiences and insights, you help us create tools that truly meet the needs of nonspeaking individuals. Together, we can advance research, and make a meaningful impact. Your voice matters, and we’re excited to work with you to shape the future of assistive technology!