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Advantages
of Computer-Based Assessment and Treatment of Speech-Language Disorders
Computer-based assessment and treatment offers many benefits to the clinician
and the client. These include:
Proven Effectiveness
A range of clinical studies have demonstrated that computer-based assessments
are more accurate and computer-based training more effective than alternative
approaches.
The SAILS approach has been demonstrated to be a uniquely effective approach to
the treatment of phonological disorders. For example, see J
Speech Lang Hear Res 1994 Apr;37(2):347-357
Computer based treatment for aphasic clients has been demonstrated
to be particularly effective. For example, see Arch
Phys Med Rehabil 1997 Aug;78(8):841-6 and J
Speech Lang Hear Res 1997 Jun;40(3):493-507.
The methods implemented in our IVANS voice assessment system and our ProTrain
speech production training system have been demonstrated to be particularly appropriate
for use with disordered voices and especially sensitive to vocal disorders. For example, see J
Speech Lang Hear Res 2000 Apr;43(2): 469-85 and J
Speech Lang Hear Res 1999 Feb;42(1):112-26.
Saves Money
Avaaz programs have been demonstrated to speed therapy, so that clients improve
to a certain level more quickly than they would without using the programs and/or
achieve a higher level of performance after a certain amount of therapy has been
provided. Because the price of these programs amounts to but a few hours of payment
for more traditional forms of therapy, this can represent a significant cost saving
to clients or third-party payers. It also helps clinicians make better use of
scarce clinical resources by freeing them to spend time on those activities for
which they are uniquely qualified.
Saves Time
All Avaaz programs contain a range of features to facilitate clinical productivity
and make the best use of clinical resources. For example, the integrated clinical
database and clinical report generator that are part of our IVANS system, significantly
reduce your paperwork while making it easier to access and review client progress
across sessions.
Avaaz' AphasiaMate, ProTrain, Listen-Hear and SAILS programs increase the rate
at which clients progress, so they help to save therapists and clients time. In
addition, the programs can be used directly by clients alone, or with assistance
from caregivers or CD assistants. When the programs are available for home use,
as supplements to in-clinic treatment, there are additional savings for clients
in travel time to/from the clinic. The computer programs reduce the preparation
time required for therapy sessions. Finally, all Avaaz programs facilitate record
keeping and the preparation of clinical reports - offering a further advantage
to clincians.
Highly Motivating and Rewarding for Clients
Clients find it rewarding to use computer programs as part of their treatment.
This use, together with the progress that is made increases client self-esteem
and confidence.
The game formats used in AphasiaMate, Listen-Hear and SAILS, together with the
provision of accuracy feedback, are highly motivating to clients. SAILS games
capture children's attention and they love to play these over and over -- learning
in the process. The AphasiaMate program sustains the interest of adult clients,
facilitates independence and increases self-esteem. ProTrain and the Oro-nasal
system provide fast and accurate biofeedback that clients can use to improve the
quality and intelligibility of their speech. |
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