Technological advances in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) have provided a "voice" to many persons through voice output communication aids and talking word processors. This voice has been hypothesized to have advantages over less expensive communication boards and traditional word processors. In our time, one of resource efficiency and evidence-based practices, it is essential to examine the evidence. This systematic review synthesizes theory and research on the use of speech output to determine the potential benefits of its use by persons with autism. Directions for future research are proposed, based on identified methodological and knowledge gaps.
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