Talking Points: The differential impact of real-time computer generated audio/visual feedback on speech-like and non-speech-like vocalization of low functioning children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Joshua Hailpern, Karrie Karahalios, Laura DeThorne and Jim Halle

Eleventh International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility (ASSETS 2009)
Pittsburgh, PA, USA, October 26-28, 2009

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Abstract

Real-time computer feedback systems (CFS) have been shown to impact the communication of neurologically typical individuals. Promising new research appears to suggest the same for the vocalization of low functioning children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, there is a distinction between encouraging vocalizations that are speech-like and those that are not. Moreover, when assessing the impact of CFS on vocalization, we must consider the impact on both types of vocalizations. This paper explores the impact of CFS by re-examining data collected by Hailpern et al. in 2009, through an analysis of speech-like vocalization, non-speech-like vocalization, and the relationship between the two. The main contribution of this work is the possibility that CFS has a unique impact on each form of vocalization, and that there appears to be a trade-off between vocalization rate and vocalization duration.