This log answers the Concept requirement for the Hackaday 2020 prize entry rules:

Concept-Is the project creative, original, functional, and pushing boundaries? Does the project effectively address the selected challenge?

Creative

This project is creative in that I created a solution to a recognised problem. Initially I created custom made hardware, which I realised would be difficult for others to replicate. There is also the safety issue associated using 'home-made' hardware with a vulnerable user group. I managed to re-purpose an off the shelf microcontroller board, which is aimed at high school education. This simplicity is the creativity.

Original

The need for this project was identified by the Lead Technologist at Beaumont College, Lancaster. This is a specialist educational centre for students, many of whom have cerebral palsy. The professional at Beaumont were unable to find off the shelf technology that fills the gap that this project intends to.

Functional

Preliminary testing was done with the target user group, both with my home made prototypes and later with the microbits. The technology works.

Pushing boundaries

This project pushes the boundaries of the technology that can be used to enable some people who currently cannot communicate to access communication technology.

Enabling somebody who cannot communicate to communicate will empower that individual to push his or her boundaries.

Does the project effectively address the selected challenge?

This project is a solution for some people for the selected challenge. It is effective in that it works and is easy and safe to replicate.