An Application for Speech and Language Therapy Using Customized Interaction Between Physical Objects and Mobile Devices

Abstract

This paper presents a prototype that facilitates the work of Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) by providing an Android mobile device application that allows the therapist to focus on the patient rather than taking notes during exercises. Each physical object used by the therapist in those exercises can be given digital properties using Near Field Communication (NFC) tags. The registration does not require a high level of ICT skills from the therapists. SLTs often use such objects in non-technology driven exercises that deal with classification, seriation and inclusion. The application offers such exercises developed in close collaboration with two SLTs, and our aim was to provide therapists with a way to efficiently record activities while working with a patient using a mobile application. The tool was validated through several expert reviews, a usability study as well as a trial with a patient in Paris, France.