Telepractice Treatment of Residual Rhotic Errors Using App-Based Biofeedback: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Telepractice
• Childhood speech sound disorders

Background:

• Mobile applications are widely used by speech-language pathologists.
• Evidence for app-based speech treatments is limited in quality and quantity.
• Telepractice delivery became crucial due to COVID-19.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of app-based visual-acoustic biofeedback versus non-biofeedback treatment.
• To evaluate app-based intervention for residual /ɹ/ errors in children.
• To assess treatment delivery via telepractice.

Main Methods:

• A single-case randomization design was employed.
• Four children (9-10 years) with residual /ɹ/ errors participated.
• Intervention was delivered via telepractice using a dedicated speech app.

Main Results:

• All participants demonstrated clinically significant improvement with the treatment package.
• Effect sizes for overall treatment ranged from moderate to very large.
• One participant showed a potential advantage for biofeedback, though order effects were noted.

Conclusions:

• App-based treatment for residual speech errors can be effective when delivered via telepractice.
• Results align with motor learning principles regarding treatment dose and feedback timing.
• Larger-scale studies are recommended to confirm findings.