Comparison of the computer–aided articulation therapy application with printed material in children with speech sound disorders

Abstract

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to develop an iPad application for computer–aided articulation therapy called the Turkish Articulation Therapy Application (TARTU), and make comparisons between the efficacy of TARTU and printed material. MethodA single subject research design, adapted alternating treatments model, was used for this purpose. The study was carried out with 2 children, at the age of 5; 1 and 5; 11, both of whom have a speech sound disorder. The comparison between TARTU and printed material effectiveness was compared for three target sounds (/k/, /ʃ/ and /l/). 12 therapy sessions were carried out three times a week using the behavioural approach. One participant received therapy targeting the sound /k/ using TARTU, while printed material used for the sound /ʃ/. The targeted sounds were switched for the second participant. Sound /l/ was left without any intervention. ResultThe target sound met the criterion with TARTU in one participant, and with printed material in the other participant. ConclusionThe presentation type of the materials did not play an important role in the success of the therapy on the participants.