The Use of an Interactive Social Simulation Tool for Adults Who Stutter: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Speech and Language Therapy
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Psychology

Background:

• Stuttering affects adults' confidence and fluency in social interactions.
• Social simulation tools can provide a safe environment to practice communication skills.
• Existing tools may lack real-world applicability or user engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the pilot of Scenari-Aid, a DVD-based social simulator for adults who stutter.
• To gather user feedback to inform the development of an online version of the simulator.
• To assess the simulator's potential impact on users' confidence and fluency.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-seven adults who stutter participated in the study.
• Participants used a DVD with realistic social scenarios to elicit verbal responses.
• User perceptions were collected via a 29-statement online Likert scale survey.

Main Results:

• High positive agreement was found among participants regarding the scenarios' realism and immersion.
• Participants reported increased fluency and confidence in everyday speaking situations.
• The study provided support for developing an online version of the social simulator.

Conclusions:

• The DVD-based social simulator, Scenari-Aid, shows promise in enhancing confidence and fluency for adults who stutter.
• User feedback supports the development and availability of an online version.
• Further research is needed to empirically validate its efficacy in speech programs.