A Multiuser Engagement Platform to Assist Speech-Language Pathologists in Their Work with People who Stutter

Stuttering is a communication disorder, impacting over 3 million Americans. While stuttering has no cure, it is treatable. Although there are nearly 200,000 speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the US, SLPs consistently report lacking confidence and knowledge in providing treatment for those who stutter, which directly impacts treatment efficacy. This barrier to optimal intervention is also compounded by caseload management issues. Specifically, SLP shortages combined with the reality of heavy caseloads makes it difficult for SLPs to resolve deficits in confidence and knowledge. Furthermore, in cases where an SLP is knowledgeable and confident in their work with people who stutter, and they have successfully taught their client a new and effective speech pattern to address moments of stuttering, a recurring challenge is helping each client to overcome social anxiety. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to develop a cloud-based solution that aids SLPs in their work with people who stutter by addressing each of these issues that directly impacts optimal outcomes for people who stutter. The target customer is the SLP. There is also potential of a version that can be offered directly to the client who has been discharged from therapy but would like continual work to maintain gains.

Scholars @ ECU