Clinical Applications of Microcomputers in Communication Disorders

Clinical Applications of Microcomputers in Communication Disorders is a comprehensive reference for the utilization of microcomputers in the field of communication disorders. The human-machine interface is discussed, along with word processing and data processing. The use of the microcomputer in the diagnosis and treatment of speech-language pathology is also reviewed. Comprised of 13 chapters, this book begins with a historical perspective of the computer in society and its role in the field of communication disorders. The reader is then introduced to computer hardware and software, and computer languages are described with examples written in BASIC. Subsequent chapters focus on the challenge that society faces in learning to live with technology; word processing and data management; and specific applications of the computer in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology. Programs that are either commercially available or are in the public domain are reviewed. The final chapter paints a picture of the clinic of the future and the role that will be played by the computer. This monograph will be a useful resource for clinicians and other practicing professionals in the fields of speech pathology and audiology, including those who have an interest in, or need to stay current with, developments in the clinical management of communication disorders.

-Preface1 Perspective Computers in Other Fields Computers in Communication Disorders Benefits of Computer Power Summary References2 Hardware Inputs Central Processing Unit Outputs Storage Devices Disk Operating Systems Modems The Future in Hardware References3 Software Of Bytes and Bits Software Development Building the Software Library Concluding Statement References4 The Human-Machine Interface The Everyday Interface The Professional Interface Computer-Assisted Instruction Computer-Based Instruction Training Needs Interfacing Technology and the Client References5 Word Processing A Professional Necessity Advantages of Word Processing How They Work System Interaction Functions Organizing Files Clinical Applications References6 Data Processing Importance of Accountability Types of Data Processing Spreadsheets Database Managers Commercially Available Software for the Office Potential Uses Conclusion References7 The Computer in Speech-Language Pathology: A Review of the Literature Introduction Early Programs Early Clinical Applications The Emergence of the Computer-Based Clinician: The Pioneers Involvement of Commercial Publishers An Organization for Professionals Using Computers Conclusion References8 Speech-Language Pathology: Diagnosis Introduction Articulation Needs for Articulation Tests Language Needs for Language Tests Voice Fluency Severely Impaired Screening Testing Summary References9 Speech-Language Pathology: Treatment Introduction Evaluating Treatment Software Elements of Treatment Validating Software in the Field Articulation Language Treatment for Children Language Treatment for Adults Voice Fluency Severely Impaired Conclusion References10 Audiology: A Survey of the Literature The Computer as a Signal Averager Computerizing Routine Tests Beyond Routine Testing Reviews of Applications Rehabilitation Summary References Suggested Readings11 Audiology: Diagnosis and Treatment Case Management Individual Test Management Hearing Aid Selection Hearing Conservation Programs Rehabilitation Other Activities in Audiology Conclusion References12 Developing Software Getting into Position Clinical Skills Programming Skills Programming Modules Packaging the Program Field Testing Self-Publishing versus Commercial Publishing Conclusion13 The Future Reasons to Consider the Future Considering Other Influences Other Forces at Work A Day at the Clinic-Year 2010 Preparing for the Future Concluding Statement ReferencesAppendix A: Utility Programs for Communication DisordersAppendix B: List of Software Companies with Software for Professionals in Communication DisordersAppendix C: Lingquest AnalysisAppendix D: List of Suggested Computer PeriodicalsGlossaryIndex