The effects of speech output technology in the learning of graphic symbols

Author(s): Belfiore, P. J., Nigam, R., Blischak, D., Hetzroni, O.

Journal/Book: J Appl Behav Anal. 1995; 28: Dept Human Development, Univ Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045. Journal Appl Behav Anal. 537-549.

Abstract: The effects of auditory stimuli in the form of synthetic speech output on the learning of graphic symbols were evaluated. Three adults with severe to profound mental retardation and communication impairments were taught to point to lexigrams when presented with words under two conditions. In the first condition, participants used a voice output communication aid to receive synthetic speech as antecedent and consequent stimuli. In the second condition, with a nonelectronic communication board, participants did nor receive synthetic speech. A parallel treatments design was used to evaluate the effects of the synthetic speech output as an added component of the augmentative and alternative communication system. The 3 participants reached criterion when they were provided with the auditory stimuli. Although 2 participants also reached criterion when not provided with the auditory stimuli, the addition of auditory stimuli resulted in more efficient learning and a decreased error rate. Maintenance results, however, indicated no differences between conditions. Findings suggest chat auditory stimuli in the form of synthetic speech contribute to the efficient acquisition of graphic communication symbols.

Note: Article RW Schlosser, Univ Oklahoma, Hlth Sci Ctr, Oklahoma Assist Technol Ctr, Div Rehabil Sci, 1122 NE 13TH St, Wb 400, Oklahoma City, OK 73117 USA

Keyword(s): auditory stimuli; augmentative and alternative communication; assistive technology devices; voice output communication aids; mentally retarded; AUTISTIC-CHILDREN; SIGN LANGUAGE; COMMUNICATION; ACQUISITION; INTELLIGIBILITY

Zurück | Weiter