Does a Computer-Assisted language training program improve social conversational skills in Autism spectrum disorder?

Lawrence Welkowitz

doi:10.7243/2054-992x-6-1

Abstract

Abstract Study Purpose: The primary hypothesis of this study is that a computer-assisted program that provides immediate feedback about matching critical acoustical features in speech may help to shape effective

Highlights

In the Neurolab we have focused on the unusual conversational styles of children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Studies in psycholinguistics have demonstrated the importance of vocal congruence or “matching” in conversational speech
Presentation of hypothesis: Pilot studies utilizing an Ipad-based software program that provides visual feedback of percentage match of pitch, rhythm, and volume is presented that suggests that such strategies may improve social conversational skills

Summary

Introduction

In typical dyadic conversation those individuals who match critical acoustical patterns, including pitch, rhythm and volume, of their conversational partners are generally viewed as more socially effective. Presentation of hypothesis: Pilot studies utilizing an Ipad-based software program that provides visual feedback of percentage match of pitch, rhythm, and volume is presented that suggests that such strategies may improve social conversational skills. Implications of the hypothesis: Computer-based feedback strategies may be useful for shaping pragmatic language skills in individuals with ASD.

Results

Conclusion