Low versus High Frequency Feedback in Apraxia of Speech

S. Austermann, D. Robin, K. Ballard, E. Maas, R. Schmidt

The current study employed a single-subject alternating multiple-baseline across subject treatment design to examine the acquisition of speech motor skills in persons with AOS under two different feedback conditions: High-Frequency Feedback (HFF) (on 100% of trials) and Low-Frequency Feedback (LFF) (on 60% of trials). Principles of motor learning (Schmidt & Lee, 1999) predict that LFF will best promote long-term retention of treated speech sounds and transfer to similar but untreated targets, while HFF will promote short-term retention but interfere with long-term retention and transfer of speech skills. The results from four subjects with AOS support the use of principles of motor learning in treatment. In particular, reducing feedback frequency may be an important consideration in structuring therapy for individuals with AOS.