Speech therapy software is a growing product area, combining a therapeutic need with intelligent programming, speakers, and microphones. Speech therapy is a series of specially designed exercises and techniques used to help people of all ages who have problems speaking. The range of potential problems is quite broad, ranging from a stutter or stammer to sign language. Humans communicate most directly through speech, and the ability to overcome challenges in this area is critical to the quality of life for most people.
There are three primary classes of speech therapy software available: assisting, instructional, and translational. In order to use this type of software, the client must have a computer with a sound card, good quality speakers or headphones, good quality microphone, and sufficient space and processing power for the software. Check the operating system of the computer before making a software selection to ensure it is compatible.
Speech therapy software can provide a wide range of services that assist users in overcoming their speech related challenge. For example, there are several excellent products that help correct problems with diction and tone. The software will ask the user to read a phrase aloud.
The software will interpret the response and provide visual and audio cues to correct any issues. The proper mouth shape and tongue placement can be displayed on the screen at the same time the proper sound is heard. The user can then repeat the phrase as many times as necessary to make the required changes.
Instructional speech therapy software is often disguised as a game. This is true for both adults and children. In the software products designed for children, the program is very interactive, with bright colors and interesting characters. The purpose is to engage the child and make sure they are actively participating in the learning process.
Instruction software for adults can also be in a game format, but typically involve human characters, real life scenarios, and complex situation. Humor is often used to keep the client engaged and participating in the lesson. In some software, interactive tools are provided, so users can communicate with other people via the Internet. This aspect of the software really enhances the learning process and helps people overcome the shyness that is very common among people with speech issues.
Translational speech therapy software is very useful for people who have a degenerative condition. The software learns the client’s speech pattern, while providing access to exercises to improve the quality of the speech. As the software learns, a database of sounds and words is built within the software itself. Should the person’s condition worsen, the software can translate his or her speech into words that can be understood by family, friends, and medical support staff.