SLPs are utilizing technology in speech therapy more than ever before. Since digital activities offer benefits for both students and SLPs, many speech therapy rooms are getting equipped with technology devices and collections of digital materials.
Understanding the many advantages of digital speech therapy activities is one thing. Knowing how to implement technology is another. Learn about the options SLPs have for digital tools that provide engaging and effective communication opportunities for their students.
Benefits of Using Technology in Speech Therapy
There are many reasons that SLPs are incorporating technology into their speech therapy sessions. Students often respond well to technology, which only makes it easier for SLPs to motivate and engage them. Students find technology relevant, interactive, and dynamic. Digital activities are evidence-based and a great way to change up the routine in speech therapy.
There are several logistical reasons for embracing technology in speech therapy, too. To name a few– digital resources greatly decrease prep time, can utilize built-in feedback and differentiation, and allow SLPs to make quick (and maybe unplanned) transitions between activities. Additionally, they can be used in therapy and also sent for homework at the click of a button.
Types of Technology to Use in Speech Therapy
When it comes to integrating technology into speech therapy, there are many devices (in addition to Augmentative and Alternative Communication, of course) that help SLPs use digital activities with their students.
Computers
Desktop and laptop computers are versatile devices that allow students to engage with a range of digital speech therapy materials.
Obviously computers are a key component of teletherapy, but in-person SLPs can also use computers for individual students and small groups. Students can access computers with a mouse, joystick, or sometimes even a touch screen.
Using an internet-connected computer gives opens the door to infinite websites that host child-friendly games, activities, videos, and reading material for students of all ages.
Other software, such as word processors or presentation applications may also be beneficial in speech therapy (especially for older students). Software programs built specifically for speech therapy (such as Visi-Pitch™) can be used to target specific goals or organize and manage a private or school-based caseload.
Both desktop and laptop computers allow SLPs and their students to view and annotate PDFs. They also may have touch screen capability, which works well for younger students. Laptop computers offer portability for SLPs that see students in various environments. With a wide variety of available sizes and other specs, laptops are a great option on-the-go SLPs.
iPads and other tablets
Handheld tablets (most often iPads) are popular devices in schools and therapy clinics. Their portability makes them easy to transport from school to school or room to room.
SLPs can equip iPads or other tablets with apps to target any speech therapy skill. There are tons of apps that are created for speech therapy or can be used to address speech and language goals. For example, the Boom app can be used to play Boom Cards decks on iPads, Android devices, and Kindle Fires.
Other apps can be used without internet access. For example, Apple Books allows SLPs and students to open and annotate downloaded PDFs in speech therapy, which is an easy way to incorporate technology even with a "printable" worksheet.
Students can access a tablet’s touchscreen directly using their finger or a stylus. Other accessories, such as a mouse or keyboard, can be connected or used wirelessly.
Smartphones
Similar to tablets, smartphones offer the ability to use apps for teaching or practicing skills in speech therapy. While the smaller screen may not be appropriate for some students, many students may prefer the smaller feel of a smartphone.
In fact, using phone apps to practice life skills (such as locating a city bus route or ordering groceries) is hugely beneficial and functional for high school students.
Smart TVs
Smart TVs are televisions with integrated internet connection. Similar to a tablet, there are various educational apps available for smart TVs. Some examples include a NASA app (with a real-time view of Earth from the International Space Station) and TED (with thousands of videos on various topics).
Interactive Whiteboards
Interactive Whiteboards are similar to Smart TVs, but have more capabilities. When using these devices, a projector casts whatever is on a computer onto a large screen (that's either free-standing or attached to a wall). SLPs and their students can interact with the contents of the screen by touch using their fingers or a stylus.
An interactive whiteboard (such as a SMARTboard) connects through cables or wirelessly to a computer or tablet. Whatever application you run on the device (such as the Boom Cards shown below) displays on the whiteboard's large screen. This is especially handy for groups of students because everyone can easily see the same material.
Choosing Technology to use in Speech Therapy
There are many technology options for speech therapy and it may be difficult to choose what’s best for the majority of your caseload. When determining the best fit for you and your students, consider these questions:
What resources are available?
Oftentimes, SLPs have several logistical considerations to keep in mind when choosing technology to use in speech therapy, such as...
How much space is available in my therapy room/space?
Is there reliable internet access during sessions?
How much money do I have to spend on technology?
Do I need a device that's portable?
Do I need a device that's compatible with other equipment that I have?
What needs do my students have?
Of course SLPs should also think about their unique caseload needs when determining the best type of technology for their sessions. SLPs should ask themselves questions like...
What are the best ways for my students to access a device (mouse, touchscreen, keyboard, eye-tracking, switches, etc.)?
Do my students have vision issues to consider (that may prevent them from seeing smaller screens)?
Are other accessibility features necessary (such as text-to-speech or speech-to-text)?
What technology are my students already familiar with or using at home or in the classroom?
What will be motivating to my students?
What sorts of activities can I use on the device?
What tech support do I have available? Will I have ample support with any problems that arise?
Technology has the potential to enhance speech therapy in multiple ways. SLPs can thoughtfully consider their caseloads, therapeutic needs, and available resources to choose something that provides tailored, engaging, and interactive experiences with digital resources.
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