23rd Annual Student Research Conference
Multimedia Clinical Resources: Matching a Child's Level of Symbolic Understanding in Speech-Language Therapy
Katie N. Oppelt*, Margaret D. Hilliard, Lauren M. Williams, Grace E. Strube, and Tricia K. Hurt
Dr. Paula Cochran, Faculty Mentor
Children learn from experience with the world and manipulating real objects. Eventually they must learn to interpret two-dimensional representations, such as photos, drawings, and symbols such as written and oral words. Using materials in speech and language therapy that match a childs experiences with real life locations and objects can help the child make the leap from toys to pictures, and finally to words. The present project builds on a foundation from last years work with My Own Bookshelf (SoftTouch Inc.) software. The components of the therapy tool kit we have developed include: three-dimensional toys, digital photos of the toys, electronic storybooks featuring the toys, two-dimensional reusable vinyl stickers, and paper storybooks with both English and Spanish audio-narration. The Pulse Smart Pen by LiveScribe was used to record and play back story text. The kit allows clinicians to pick theme-related materials that perfectly match a childs level of symbolic understanding.
Keywords: speech-language therapy, electronic book, therapy materials, child language, communication disorders, assistive technology, multimedia, bilingual
Topic(s):Communication Disorders
Computer Science
Special Education
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 1-1
Location: SUB-GEO
Time: 4:15