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Single-word intelligibility in speakers with repaired cleft palate
Tara L Whitehill1, Cynthia H F Chau
1Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China. tara@hku.hk
Clinical Linguistics & Phonetics
|July 21, 2004
Summary
This study developed a new single-word intelligibility test for individuals with cleft palate. The test accurately predicts speech intelligibility using key phonetic contrasts, aiding in treatment planning.
Area of Science:
- Speech-language pathology
- Linguistics
- Craniofacial anomalies
Background:
- Individuals with repaired cleft palate often experience reduced speech intelligibility.
- Current intelligibility assessment methods have limitations for this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel single-word intelligibility test for Cantonese speakers with repaired cleft palate.
- To identify problematic phonetic contrasts affecting intelligibility in this group.
Main Methods:
- A multiple-choice word identification test was created, focusing on challenging phonetic contrasts.
- Fifteen Cantonese speakers with repaired cleft palate participated as speakers.
- Naive listeners identified words, and intelligibility scores were calculated.
Main Results:
- The test accurately predicted single-word intelligibility with 91% accuracy using three phonetic contrasts.
- Place of articulation, stop vs. fricative, and stop vs. affricate were the most problematic contrasts.
- The study identified the most robust phonetic contrasts as well.
Conclusions:
- The developed test offers a more precise measure of intelligibility for speakers with cleft palate.
- This 'explanatory' test can guide targeted speech therapy and monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Findings provide insights into phonetic challenges and language-specific factors in cleft palate speech.