Fellow Shirley McNaughton
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Fellow Shirley McNaughton

Shirley McNaughton, CM, PhD

Born: January 3, 1931 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Shirley McNaughton

Entry into the AT Field: 1971

How I got into the field

Working as a teacher with children who had a physical disability and who also were nonspeaking.

Important event(s) that influenced my early decision to get into the assistive technology field

My major involvement has been in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). I was strongly influenced by RESNA members - Greg Vanderheiden, Barry Romich, Rich Foulds.

Why I chose the AT field

My motivation was to bring broad communication capabilities to those who are unable to speak and also unable to read.

My inspiration and mentor

David Yoder was an inspiration and supporter of the work I was doing with Blissymbolics. He seemed to always precede me in giving lectures and paved the way for me to share my work in Blissymbolics.

Why the field is important to me and the central focus of my work

Technology is a critical component in AAC systems. The central focus of my work has been to apply Blissymbolics with persons with severe physical limitations. This cannot be done without technology.

My memorable successes and greatest contributions to the field

Some of my most memorable successes involved the early prototypes of Bliss communication displays in the seventies and eighties. I felt a major breakthrough had been achieved - to enable individuals who could only control a single switch, to express their ideas prior to achieving literacy.

I feel the ongoing development of Blissymbolics for over 3 decades and serving as founding president of ISAAC have been my greatest contributions.

My most memorable failures

Failure to market Blissymbolics in a way that would enable this language to help more persons. I responded to this failure by working with other dedicated volunteers to bring assistance to as many nonspeaking persons as we could.

Significant changes and advances in the field since I first entered it

The widespread use of technology with ever-improving synthetic speech. The development of voice output devices that can be controlled by those who have not achieved print literacy. This has made it possible for many individuals to gain the communication and language experiences that can serve as the foundation for literacy acquisition.

On the future of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology

I would hope forever improving capabilities for the individual prior to learning to read, to control and produce his own vocabulary.

My role within RESNA and what it gave back to me

RESNA has been a "fellow" supportive organization during my years of association with ISAAC.

On the future of RESNA

Hopefully always responding to the needs of those RESNA serves in a practical way and making technology available to all who can benefit.

My suggestions for those just entering the field

Always keep the consumer at the centre of all you do.

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