The PhonicStick : Can intense training with the PhonicStick affecvt phonological ability in children with an atypical language development?

Sammanfattning: The present study investigates if intense training with the PhonicStick, a speech generating joystick developed originally as a communication device, has an effect on phonological ability in children with an atypical language development. Previous studies connected to the PhonicStick and phonological ability has not shown any improvement of phonological awareness due to training with the device. What is unique in the present study is the amount of intense training with the PhonicStick, something that has never been done before, as well as the focus on phonological ability instead of phonological awareness. The study consists of nine participating children between 4y;0m to 5y;7m of age, six of them diagnosed with an atypical language development by a speech and language pathologist, and three of them considered to follow a typical language development. Results indicate that intense training with the PhonicStick combined with conventional speech and language interventions may have an effect regarding phonological ability in children with an atypical language development on an individual level. Key words: The PhonicStick, phonological ability, atypical language development, intense training.