Self-Supervised App-Based Speech Training for Children With Speech Sound Disorder-A Single-Case Experimental Design...

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Child development
• Digital health interventions

Background:

• Home-training is crucial for speech sound disorder (SSD) intervention frequency.
• Digital apps offer accessible, cost-effective speech training solutions for children.
• Challenges exist in achieving consistent home-training adherence for SSD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if Pop2TalkNordic app-based home-training accelerates speech improvements in children with SSD.
• To explore children's experiences and engagement with the Pop2TalkNordic app.
• To evaluate the efficacy of self-supervised digital intervention for pediatric speech disorders.

Main Methods:

• A single-case experimental design with a multiple-baseline across-subjects approach was used.
• Four Swedish children (4-6 years) with SSD participated in a 3-week intervention.
• Trained and untrained word productions were monitored, alongside app usage tracking.

Main Results:

• No significant improvements in target consonant production were observed across participants.
• Two children showed minor gains on trained words, but not untrained words.
• Children's experiences with the app varied, with some enjoying it and others finding it difficult.

Conclusions:

• The current Pop2TalkNordic app, used in a self-supervised manner for three weeks, is insufficient for improving speech sound production in children with SSD.
• Enhancements in game design, such as improved feedback and phonological contrast highlighting, are recommended.
• Increased parental engagement in app-based interventions is suggested to improve clinical outcomes for pediatric speech sound disorder.