Semin Speech Lang 2017; 38(03): 220-228
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1602841
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Speech Recognition as a Practice Tool for Dysarthria

Susan Koch Fager
1   Institute for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals, Lincoln, Nebraska.
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
15 June 2017 (online)

Abstract

Recovery of speech in dysarthria requires an extensive amount of time and practice. Speech recognition (SR) technology may support long-term practice and speech recovery efforts for individuals with dysarthria. However, SR technology development has been focused on typical (neurologically intact) speakers to support writing. This article describes the history and development of SR technology, how it has been used by individuals with dysarthria, and includes a case study illustration of the use of a novel SR technology as a speech practice tool. Case study participants included two individuals with differing onsets and dysarthria due to traumatic brain injury. Results indicated that both were able to make acoustic/perceptual changes during speech practice sessions, and one participant demonstrated generalization of changes to habitual speech. Limitations and future directions of current SR technology as a speech practice tool are discussed.

 
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