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Speaker transfer in children's peer conversation: completing communication-aid-mediated contributions
Michael Clarke1, Steven Bloch, Ray Wilkinson
1Developmental Science Department, University College London, UK. m.clarke@ucl.ac.uk
This study analyzes speaker transitions in conversations involving a boy using a voice-output communication aid (VOCA). It reveals how VOCA use impacts turn-taking and conversational flow between peers.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Communication Studies
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Effective speaker exchange is crucial for natural conversation.
- Participants use signals to manage turn-taking during interactions.
- Assistive technology, like voice-output communication aids (VOCAs), can influence conversational dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine speaker transfer in a conversation involving a child using a VOCA.
- To analyze turn-exchange mechanisms when a VOCA-mediated contribution nears completion.
- To understand how communication aids affect peer interaction and conversational flow.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing principles and findings from conversation analysis.
- Analyzing features of speaker transfer in a dyadic conversation.
- Focusing on turn exchange during VOCA-mediated communication.
Main Results:
- The study identified specific features of turn exchange in VOCA-assisted conversation.
- Analysis revealed how the completion of a VOCA-mediated turn is managed.
- The interaction demonstrated how listeners attend to signals for legitimate speaking opportunities.
Conclusions:
- Speaker transfer in conversations involving VOCA users requires specific interactional management.
- Conversation analysis provides valuable insights into the use of assistive communication technologies.
- Understanding these dynamics can improve communication support for individuals with disabilities.
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