Speech and Hearing Science Commons^™

Teaching Bilingual Features To A Young Augmentative And Alternative Communication User With Autism, Paola Gallegos

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

This study examines how a minimally verbal, young Spanish-English bilingual child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) uses translanguaging toggle features on an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to produce multi-word picture descriptions. The study employed a Rapidly Alternating Treatments Design (RATD) to analyze AAC performance under language-controlled Spanish-only and English-only conditions. A quantitative analysis examined the frequency and patterns of bilingual AAC feature use during aided modeling and instruction, while qualitative methods explored the related challenges and benefits. This study highlights the potential for bilingual AAC systems to enhance communication effectiveness and underscores the importance of incorporating user and …

Adaptation, Reliability, And Validity Of The Auditory Skills Checklist (Asc) For Bengali Speaking Children With Severe To Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss With Hearing Aids, Istiak Rahman, Mahedi Hasan

Makara Journal of Health Research

Background: The audiologic assessment guidelines of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) encouraged functional auditory skills assessment, appropriate for age. The Auditory Skills Checklist (ASC) assessment tool was developed from the necessity to assess the auditory skills of young children with Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL). The aim of this study was to adapt a Bengali version of the ASC checklist from the original English version and then to test its reliability and validity.

Methods: The method of forward-backward translation and cognitive debriefing was employed to produce a culturally sensitive Bengali version of the checklist. The data was analyzed for …

Exploring Sound Intensity Levels In Dance Studios: A Study On Acoustic Environments And Their Impact, Nicole M. Ruda, Ella M. Stoppel, Blake Roth

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study investigated the intensity levels of music in dance studios and evaluated listener habits and awareness of the negative impact loud noises can have on hearing. Sound intensity measurements were first collected followed by a survey and basic auditory screening. Results indicated dance instructors are exposed to music intensities that exceed safe listening levels. Most participants were unaware of their listening level.

Aging-Related Hearing Decline And Resting State Networks, Cassidy S. T. Ellsworth

College of Education and Human Sciences: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

This study investigated the effects of age-related hearing decline on functional networks using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). The main objective of the present study was to examine resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and graph theory-based network efficiency metrics in forty-nine adults categorized by age and hearing thresholds to identify the neural mechanisms of age-related hearing decline. RsFC within key brain networks and auditory-related brain regions, including the default mode network, salience network, dorsal attention network, and primary auditory cortices, was assessed using region-of-interest (ROI)-based and graph theory approaches. Functional metrics, such as rsFC strength and global and local efficiency, …

Music And Word Learning In Children Diagnosed With Developmental Language Disorder, Rebekah G. Sweeney

College of Education and Human Sciences: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

Purpose: This study investigates whether incorporating music into vocabulary interventions improves rate of learning and retention of words in children with developmental language disorder (DLD). Emerging literature continues to show the plentiful benefits of music as a tool for intervention in many settings, including the world of speech pathology (Levitin, 2024). However, it is also evident that there is a connection between struggling with language, and struggling with musical elements, such as rhythm and pitch perception, particularly in children with DLD (Boorom et al., 2022; Kreidler et al., 2023). This study seeks to tease out if music is an effective …

Cross-Cultural Comparison Of Mother-Child Interactions During Shared Reading, Yingshan Huang, Brenda L. Beverly, Victoria Henbest

Victoria S. Henbest Publications

The quantity and quality of maternal interactive behaviours during shared reading were compared for mothers from China and mothers from the US.Ten Chinese mothers from Fuzhou City in Fujian Province, China and 10 mothers from four US states video-recorded themselves reading two storybooks, one selected by the families and one by investigators, to their typically developing 4-year-olds. Videotapes were transcribed in Mandarin and English, respectively, and analysed using investigator-developed codes. Chinese mothers had a higher percentage of extra-textual talk than US mothers and attention to print (i.e. English letters or Chinese characters) was uncommon among mothers in both groups. Chinese …

Feeding And Swallowing Disorders In Children With Autism: What Caregivers Need To Know, Olivia Hopkins

Undergraduate Publications

This study investigates the complex topic of feeding and swallowing disorders in children with autism, highlighting the significant challenges they pose, particularly related to sensory sensitivities and oral motor difficulties, and the persistent lack of understanding. We examine diagnostic criteria, risks, familial impacts, cultural nuances, and evidence-based intervention strategies, with a focus on practical guidance for caregivers, to equip them with resources for navigating these challenges (Schulz & Eden, 2016). Despite the prevalence of these disorders, many remain unaware of the struggles, underscoring the urgent need for targeted investigations and supportive measures. Specifically, this paper aims to provide Speech Language …

Introducing Immersion Techniques To Shift Augmentative And Alternative Communication Uses: A Brief Report, Lisa Taylor Cook, Deann O'Lenick

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

Caregivers and interventionists all need the same information about how to support language development when language is being developed through augmentative communication systems. Through learning about the importance of immersion practices, caregivers and interventionalists were empowered to support and advocate for various types of verbal expressions and speech that occurred through speech generating devices.

Isapa 2025: Program Guide, Catherine Carty, Gerard Masdeu Yelamos

Publications

ISAPA 2025 is a landmark international event that brings together global leaders, researchers, practitioners, and advocates in Adapted Physical Activity to ignite systemic change under the unifying theme “Shifting the Dial: From Awareness to Transformation.” Hosted in Kerry, Ireland, under the patronage of UNESCO, the symposium integrates five major events into one dynamic platform.

The program reflects IFAPA’s mission to advance inclusion, research, professional excellence, and international cooperation, while also contributing meaningfully to the implementation of global frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris 2024 Call …

An Observational Study Of Discourse Tasks And Running Speech Sampling In The Assessment Of Paediatric Voice Quality, Victoria Reynolds, Kristin Scavo-Smith, Kate Oteng-Bediako, Sophie Scanlon

Speech-Language Pathology Faculty Publications

Introduction

Running speech sampling is an essential component of a paediatric voice evaluation, in that it should provide the examiner with a representative vocal sample of the child's everyday voice use outside of the clinic setting. Current speech sampling practices, consisting of reading tasks, informal conversation sampling and the voice question ('Tell me about your voice problem'), may not elicit consistent samples or samples of sufficient length to allow the examiner to make a reliable and valid judgement about vocal quality. The aim of this study is to compare the voice quality of children produced in response to existing running …

Addressing Ai Usage In Your Course Syllabus: A Guide For Faculty, Diana Almodovar Ph.D.

Open Educational Resources

No abstract provided.

Practicing Clinicians' Views Of The Life Participation Approach To Aphasia Therapy, Stephanie H. Mays

Theses and Dissertations--Communication Sciences and Disorders

The Life Participation Approach to Aphasia therapy (LPAA) aligns with a person-centered, functional approach to speech therapy. Past research has demonstrated that persons with aphasia (PWA) benefit from this approach and prefer it when compared to the traditional medical model to therapy. However, a disconnect between PWA preferences and SLP treatment approaches in therapy persists. This study aims to identify both barriers and facilitators that SLPs face when implementing LPAA. Five CCC-SLPs practicing in the state of KY with experience working with PWA were recruited as participants. Participants were placed into two focus groups, with each group meeting for 2-3 …

Clear Speech Intervention In Parkinson’S Disease: A Single Case Design Examining Acoustic And Aerodynamic Outcomes Following A Structured Protocol, Zachariah Jordan Backus

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

ABSTRACT

Clear Speech Intervention in Parkinson’s Disease: A Single Case Design Examining Acoustic and Aerodynamic Outcomes Following a Structured Protocol

Zachariah Backus

Purpose:

Parkinson Disease (PD) is a neuro-progressive movement disorder that impacts all movement of the body, including speech production. Ninety percent of individuals living with PD will experience hypokinetic dysarthria, a motor speech disorder, during the progression of their disease. Clear speech instruction is a treatment strategy used to increase motor speech outcomes in those with PD. Studies have shown positive changes in articulation, prosody, voice, and listener perception measures in those with PD after clear speech instruction …

Exploring Physicians/Physician Assistants Perspectives On The Challenges And Communication Approaches When Communicating With People With Aphasia, Alexandra M. Rogers

SURF Posters 2025

Aphasia is an acquired language disorder that results from damage to the language areas of the brain, typically located within the left hemisphere. Individuals with aphasia often experience significant challenges while communicating with other individuals, including physicians and healthcare professionals. These barriers can ultimately lead to negative impacts on the quality of care, patient experiences, and overall health outcomes. The lack of consistent use of communication strategies as well as a general misunderstanding of aphasia by medical staff, further contributes to communication breakdowns. As a result, medical assessments can be misinterpreted, treatments may be delayed, and patients may feel less …

An Aphasia Friendly Questionnaire For Post-Stroke Fatigue, Abigail Best

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

A stroke is when there is lack of blood flow to part of the brain. It can cause permanent damage, such as paralysis, sensory changes, difficulty with speech and language (such as aphasia), and decreased memory. Within this project, we will discuss individuals post-stroke who are diagnosed with aphasia, which is the inability to understand and express language. Currently, there are minimal resources available to help a healthcare worker define and assess the fatigue level of a patient post-stroke who is also diagnosed with aphasia. The first objective of this research is to discuss stroke and aphasia. The second objective …

Supporting Entry-Level Speech-Language Pathologists Who Serve Children Who Are Deaf Or Hard-Of-Hearing In Early Intervention, Kristina Blaiser, Hannah Daw, Blair Richlin, Jenn Gallup

Journal of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention

The aim of this study was to increase understanding of what is considered key information for entry-level speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serving children who are DHH. Specifically, this study explored skills and strategies that could be integrated into SLP graduate curriculum to increase entry-level provider confidence and knowledge. An online survey was distributed to providers of the DHH within the United States and included a) key skills and strategies recommended for entry-level providers serving children who are DHH b) barriers experienced by entry-level providers and c) demographics. The skills and strategies that emerged as most important according to participants (n …

Analyzing Errors Across Nonword Repetition Tasks For Clinical Utility Among Children Who Speak African American English, Tatum Carver-Dews

LSU Master's Theses

Purpose

Within the context of African American English (AAE), this study aimed to examine the clinical utility of three different types of NWR tasks to differentiate children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) from those who are typically developing (TD), by percentage of phonemes correct (PPC) and by type of error (e.g., consonants or vowels; omissions or substitutions). Additionally, this study allowed for examination of the relationship between the children’s NWR performance and their density of dialect-specific forms.

Methods

The data came from 50 kindergarteners (25 females, 25 males) who had participated in a multi-year study of childhood DLD within the …

A Comparison Of Vestibular Function In Young Adult Musicians And Non-Musician Peers, Alexandria W. Greene, Ashley G. Flagge, Nicholas S. Stanley

Ashley Flagge Publications

Purpose: The majority of college-level musicians exceed the daily recommended noise dose level during instrumental practices and performances, although less than one-third report wearing hearing protection while playing their instruments. Although the hazardous effects of music on the auditory system have been established, even in young adult musicians still early in their musical careers, the effects of music on the vestibular system are still unclear. The purpose of the present study was to examine vestibular/balance differences between young adult musicians and non-musicians to determine the effects of music exposure on the vestibular system.

Method: Young adult participants aged 18-27 years …

Dr. Audrey Holland's Crazy Patchwork Quilt: A Thematic Analysis, Jessica D. Richardson, Sarah Grace Hudspeth Dalton, Honey Isabel Hubbard, Maya Henry

Speech Pathology and Audiology Faculty Research and Publications

Dr. Audrey Holland was a friend to people with aphasia and related disorders, care partners, community advocates, students, clinicians, educators, researchers, and more. Her profound impact extended across these diverse communities within aphasiology and speech-language pathology. Through her words and deeds, Audrey established a rich legacy that continues to guide and inspire countless individuals. A careful examination of her contributions reveals a roadmap for those seeking to embark on a similar journey of compassion and influence. To pay tribute to our mentor and friend, we conducted a thematic analysis of her solo works to identify enduring themes, laugh-out-loud anecdotes, and …

Research Priorities For Childhood Apraxia Of Speech: A Long View, Patricia Mccabe, Molly Beiting, Elaine R Hitchcock, Edwin Maas, Amy Meredith, Angela T Morgan, Nancy L Potter, Jonathan L Preston, Laura Moorer, Pooja Aggarwal, Kirrie Ballard, Laura Baskall Smith, Nicole F Caballero, Kathryn Cabbage, Julie Case, Susan Caspari, Karen V Chenausky, Shina Cook, Ewa Grzelak, Maryane Gomez, Aubrie Hagopian, Chantelle Highman, Anne Hodits, Jenya Iuzzini-Seigel, Jillian Levos-Carlson, Barbara A Lewis, Patricia Mayro, Jyutika Mehta, Gabrielle Miller, Kimberly D Mory, Elizabeth Murray, Megan S Overby, Lucia Pasquel-Lefebvre, Derrick Peavy, Caitlin V Raaz, Brooke Rea, Denise Santos Ford, Lynn Smith, Michelle T. Swartz, Melissa Taberski, Hayo Terband, Donna C Thomas, Hannah Valentine, Mirjam Van Tellingen, Shelley Velleman, Emily Wang, Sarah White, Eddy C H Wong, Maria I Grigos

Department of Speech-Language Pathology Faculty Papers

This article introduces the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research Special Issue: Selected Papers From the 2022 Apraxia Kids Research Symposium. The field of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) has developed significantly in the past 15 years, with key improvements in understanding of basic biology including genetics, neuroscience, and computational modelling; development of diagnostic tools and methods; diversity of evidence-based interventions with increasingly rigorous experimental designs; and understanding of impacts beyond impairment-level measures. Papers in this special issue not only review and synthesize the some of the substantial progress to date but also present novel findings addressing critical research …

Impact Of A Narrative Language Intervention On Language, Behavior, And Self-Concept Among Bilingual Children With Developmental Language Disorder, Nancy Tarshis Ma, Ms, Ccc-Slp, Kathleen Mcgrath Mss, Lsw, Ida Barresi Ma, Ccc-Slp, Risa Battino Ms, Ccc-Slp, Bcs-F, Sarah Henderson Msed, Ms, Ccc-Slp, Shankar Viswanathan Drph, Jee-Young Moon Phd, Karen Bonuck Phd

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

The growing research on narrative interventions is promising but has gaps regarding cultural/linguistic diversity and outcomes beyond language. We evaluated whether a structured, oral narrative intervention affects narrative language, problem behaviors, and self-concept in a diverse group of children with developmental language disorder. A 10-session intervention was implemented within routine care. Baseline and follow-up data included: (a) Narrative recordings—coded by therapists using the CUBED Narrative Language Measure, (b) Child Behavior Checklist—a parent-reported behavioral assessment, and (c) the Piers-Harris Children’s Self-Concept Scale. Among the sample’s n = 33 children, aged 6-16, 55.6% were bilingual. Post intervention, participants’ narrative language scores improved …

Preservice Augmentative And Alternative Communication Coursework Across 311 Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Programs, Brandon S. Eddy, Emily Sorensen, Mariel Pinto

Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders

Speech-language pathologists often report a lack of preparedness to provide augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services, suggesting the need for improved graduate level training. Recent studies of AAC coursework offerings found 86% to 88% of programs offered AAC coursework, but these studies relied on survey methods with limited numbers of responses. This study examined AAC course offerings at 311 graduate programs using website and course catalog reviews, supplemented by direct contact with departments when dedicated AAC courses could not be found using online resources. Of these, 282 (90.68%) offered a dedicated AAC course, and 16 (5.14%) offered AAC in combination …

Clear Masks Do Not Prevent Gains During Dynamic Temporal And Tactile Cueing Treatment: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Pilot Study, Jenya Iuzzini-Seigel, Elizabeth Murray, Shelley L. Velleman, Geraldine Bricker-Katz, Donna Thomas

Speech Pathology and Audiology Faculty Research and Publications

Purpose:

This study aimed to determine the outcomes and impact of Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) treatment when clear vinyl masks were worn. DTTC is one of the few evidence-based treatments for children with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Given that DTTC relies on visual, auditory, and tactile cues, it was unknown if treatment gains would be demonstrated when masks were worn and how masking would impact the therapy experience for clinicians and caregivers.

Method:

A sequential mixed methods design was used to study the efficacy of DTTC treatment in children with CAS when clear masks were worn. The …

Lcd 106: Introduction To Communication Sciences And Disorders, Yael Neumann

Open Educational Resources

This course will provide an introduction to the development and disorders of speech, language, and communication in children and adults. Disorders such as autism, aphasia, stuttering, and learning disabilities will be discussed. Differences noted in culturally and linguistically diverse communities will also be addressed. The course activities will give students an experiential appreciation of the experience of communication challenges and supporting people with those challenges. Information about the professions of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Audiology, and Speech and Hearing Science will be reviewed as potential career paths.

Bridging The Gap Between Clinical Practice And Evidence For Hyolaryngeal Excursion Assessment During A Clinical Swallow Evaluation, Kelsey Murray

Dissertations, 2020-current

This study investigated current practices of subjective hyolaryngeal excursion (sHLE) assessment during a clinical swallow evaluation (CSE) among speech-language pathologists (SLPs) using a survey-based approach. A sample of 77 SLPs in the United States completed an online survey rating their perceived importance and practice of sHLE assessment during a CSE. Additionally, the survey inquired about inferred interpretations from assessing sHLE. Results indicated a strong positive correlation between the rated importance of sHLE assessment and the reported frequency with which it is completed, r_s(46) = .720, p < .001. However, the findings also suggested that some SLPs are not assessing sHLE during a CSE. This offers valuable insight into the prevailing practices of HLE assessment among SLPs, considering the limited evidence for HLE assessment and interpretation. Interpretation and generalizations of the findings is limited due to the small sample size. Findings, however, do support the need for future research investigating the validity of sHLE assessment performed during a CSE, with the aim of providing evidence to guide clinical best practices.

Keywords: hyolaryngeal excursion, speech-language pathologist, clinical swallow evaluation, dysphagia, palpation

Abstract …

Are Hearing Aids Designed For All Parts Of The World? An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study, Preeti Pandey

Dissertations, 2020-current

The affordability of hearing aids (HA) is a significant barrier to ownership in low-and middle-income countries (WHO, 2021). Crowded living conditions in developing countries intensify the complexity of listening environments compared to developed nations. No existing literature compares the listening environment and HA outcomes using real-world measures across these regions. This study aims to 1) compare HA outcomes and listening environments between India and the USA, and 2) evaluate the benefit of premium HAs over basic HAs in both locations. In an observational, multi-location, single-blinded study, nineteen hearing aid users (mean age 69.6 years) participated. Ecological momentary assessments (EMA) were …

Standardizing Attention Process Training-Iii For A Multisite Clinical Trial Of Neuromodulation, Jessica D. Richardson, Honey Isabel Hubbard, Sarah Grace Dalton, Sloan Davidson, Tiana Maple, Tyler B. Smith, Mo Chen, Rebecca Hiltner, Thomas Jones, Andrew R. Mayer, Orrin Myers, Cassandra Nelson, Sarah Pirio-Richardson, Cidney Robertson-Benta, Scott R. Sponheim, Joel Upston, Lindsay Worth, Nicholas Davenport, Davin K. Quinn

Speech Pathology and Audiology Faculty Research and Publications

Introduction

The Control Network Neuromodulation to Enhance Cognitive Training in Complex Traumatic Brain Injury (CONNECT-TBI) study is an ongoing randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled multisite clinical trial to determine the enhancing effects of noninvasive neuromodulation when paired with cognitive training in military participants (Veterans and active duty) with mild TBI. Attention Process Training-III (APT-III) was selected for its strong evidence base, manualized procedures, and computerized program. However, many aspects of APT-III that make it ideal for personalization make it less ideal for reliable implementation across participants, clinicians/technicians, and sites. The purpose of this feature article is to highlight APT-III procedures that require …

The Harding University Speech Clinic As A Community Outreach Program In White County, Melaney Binkley

McNair Scholars Research

A university speech clinic provides, at no cost to clients, more selective, limited speech and language services by a student clinician in the Communication Sciences and Disorders program under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist (SLP). A private speech clinic requires certified speech-language pathologists and assistants. The purpose of this study was to analyze the Harding University Speech Clinic’s client population, particularly in terms of socioeconomic status, since the city in which the university is located has a higher average poverty rate than the state. Additionally, the study sought to measure the level of client satisfaction with the services …

Speech & Language Services: Examining The Experiences Of Deaf / Hard Of Hearing People, Milayna N. Barker

University Honors Theses

The purpose of this study is to examine the experiences of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HoH) adults and parents of Deaf/HoH children related to speech and language services, and their recommendations for service providers. Historically, professionals have focused on the development of speech and aural/oral skills of Deaf and HoH people. As such, when working with families of newly-identified children with hearing loss, hearing professionals may be ill-equipped to provide culturally-responsive, fully inclusive information and education regarding communication options and opportunities.

Method: This study used a qualitative research design to examine participant experiences related to speech and language services …

Audiological Evaluation Of Persons With Dementia: A Systematic Review, Yehudis Hoch

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Background: Dementia and hearing loss are both prevalent, age-related conditions and recent research has established a correlation between the two. Audiological evaluations of persons with dementia are important due to a likely comorbidity of dementia and hearing loss, the detrimental effect that hearing loss has on cognition and cognitive tests, and because the similar presentation of the two conditions can cause hearing loss to be overlooked. Hearing loss intervention is critical for this population due to the positive effects that amplification has on cognition, social engagement, and listening effort. Despite the importance of hearing assessment and intervention, audiological evaluation of …