Analysis on current practice and needs based survey of parents and speech-language pathologists for reading intervention with smart device applications

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the current practices, difficulties and needs of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and parents in the reading intervention for children with reading difficulties and to make suggestions for developing smart device applications as reading intervention tools for them. Methods: Questionnaires were developed to examine the experience, difficulties, and needs in smart device applications regarding reading intervention. The survey was conducted in an online format, with a total of 120 questionnaires (60 SLPs, 60 parents) analyzed in the study. Results: SLPs had significantly more experience and difficulties than parents in intervention for children with reading difficulties. SLPs had significantly more support needs than parents when using smart device applications for intervention. Applications providing reading materials for intervention were highly desired by both SLPs and parents. Conclusion: The current study provides data showing that SLPs and parents have support needs when using reading intervention services via smart device applications for children with reading difficulties.