Research Projects

R 3. Computerized Training of Conversational Scripts to Facilitate Integration into the Community and Work Force

Abstract

This project develops, implements, and evaluates a treatment program for individuals with aphasia that uses computerized cue-based massed drilling to accomplish automatization of script production. A script is a sequence of sentences that a person typically speaks in routine communication situations. It is hypothesized that proficiency in individualized conversational scripts will facilitate communication and participation in specific everyday activities. 35 subjects are evaluated at two time points, six weeks apart prior to initiation of treatment. Communication skills are assessed by standardized language tests and quality of life scales. The treatment involves a discussion of the subject's communication needs and identification of potential script scenarios. Three different short scripts or one long script that can be divided into three parts are developed with the subject. The scripts are computerized. The subjects practice the scripts on the computer using reading aloud, once a week with the clinician and 30 minutes a day independently at home. During treatment, weekly probes that include measures of accuracy and speaking rate on the current script being trained as well as on the other two scripts are taken. Performance on an untrained control script is also probed. Subjects are reassessed immediately post-treatment and then six weeks later to determine maintenance of treatment effects.

Contact Information: Leora Cherney, PhD
lcherney@ric.org

Anita Halper, MA
ahalper@ric.org

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