[Filmed sample size and pragmatic analysis in Down syndrome]
Eliza Porto1, Suelly Cecilia Olivian Limongi, Irlaine Guedes dos Santos
1Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Departamento de Fisioterapia, Fonoaudiologia e Terapia Ocupacional, Brazil. portoeliza@yahoo.com.br
Pro-Fono : Revista De Atualizacao Cientifica
|August 22, 2007
Summary
Analyzing pragmatic abilities in children with Down syndrome requires careful consideration of data collection. This study found that videotaped interaction duration did not significantly impact the analysis of their communication skills.
Area of Science:
- Child Language Development
- Clinical Linguistics
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Assessing language development necessitates practical and theoretical knowledge.
- Reliable results depend on appropriate data gathering and analysis methodologies.
- Understanding pragmatic abilities is crucial for effective communication interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify optimal sample size and duration for videotaped interactions.
- To efficiently study pragmatic abilities in children with Down syndrome.
- To maximize data quality and effectiveness in minimal time.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated the communicative profile of 25 children with Down syndrome (ages 2-7).
- Compared 15-minute and 30-minute videotaped interaction samples during play situations.
- Utilized statistical tests (Friedman, Wilcoxon, confidence interval) with a 0.05 significance level.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between 15-minute and 30-minute videotaped samples.
- Videotape duration did not affect the pragmatic analysis of communication in children with Down syndrome.
- The chosen interactional context (play) and therapist involvement were consistent.
Conclusions:
- Videotape duration is not a critical factor for pragmatic analysis in this population.
- Shorter sample durations may be sufficient for assessing pragmatic abilities in children with Down syndrome.
- Methodological efficiency can be improved without compromising data validity.
