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Published on: July 13, 2019
Speech generating devices and modality of short-term word storage
1California State University, East Bay, California 94542, USA. dukhovny@csueastbay.edu
Summary
Individuals using speech-generating devices (SGDs) showed evidence of phonological encoding for short-term word storage. Those with severe speech impairments had better recall of high-frequency words.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Linguistics
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Individuals with severe speech impairments often use speech-generating devices (SGDs) for communication.
- Previous research suggests non-speech responses activate non-phonological storage in unimpaired individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate short-term word storage in individuals using SGDs.
- To compare storage modalities between unimpaired individuals using SGDs and individuals with speech impairments using SGDs.
Main Methods:
- 23 pre-trained adult speakers without disabilities used SGDs.
- Four individuals who use SGDs for communication participated.
- Short-term word storage was assessed in both groups.
Main Results:
- Participants without disabilities demonstrated phonological word storage when using SGDs.
- Individuals using SGDs showed higher recall for high-frequency words.
- Preliminary evidence suggests phonological encoding for short-term storage in SGD users.
Conclusions:
- Speech-generating device use may involve phonological encoding for short-term word storage, even in individuals with speech impairments.
- High-frequency words are more easily recalled by SGD users.
- Further research is required to fully understand concurrent storage modalities in SGD users.
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