Abstract:
Is the integration of technology into speech and language therapy a promising
addition for children receiving speech and language services? The purpose of this action
research study was to determine the influence of a speech-language computer program on
students' achievement of speech-language therapy goals. The participants consisted of 10
randomly selected students aged 6-7 years old in the first or second grade previously
placed in a speech-language resource program for remediation of articulation disorders.
Students participated using Sound Therapy Lite for 60-minute intervals four times per
week for a 3-week period.
This qualitative action research study utilized various methods of data collection,
including a pretest and posttest, student surveys, student interviews, and a daily speechlanguage
pathology log. A review of the literature indicated speech-language pathologists
in the past to rely on therapy methods without the use of technology. However, the
impetus of this action research was the fact that speech-language pathologists' in current
therapy settings are indeed exploring the use of technology and report positive results
with regard to their caseloads.
Student response toward the use of Sound Therapy Lite was noteworthy with
indications of an overall satisfaction with the program. Progress with previously defined
speech-language goals as well as an increase in self-esteem among students was noted.
The results of the action research study were communicated to classroom teachers of
speech-language students at Waynesville Elementary School. A detailed letter along with
a PowerPoint presentation was sent as an e-mail attachment, and may be viewed in the
Learning Community Report.