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Scholarly Works (2 results)

  • Article
  • Peer Reviewed
UC Berkeley Previously Published Works (2014)

Unlabelled

Language production via high-tech alternative/augmentative communication (AAC) devices involves use of motor sequences that are determined by the visuo-spatial characteristics of a particular device. The current study uses traditional short-term memory tasks with device-based output to demonstrate that typical talkers show a trend toward device-specific modality interference in short-term device-based recall. The theoretical implications of these early findings with regard to models of working memory and the clinical implications are discussed.

Learning outcomes

(1) Describe two modalities of non-phonological short-term storage, (2) List a potential effect of SGD-based output on modality of short-term word storage, (3) Describe a theoretical implication of device-based representations with regard to models of working memory, and (4) Describe a clinical application of the concept of motor memory in AAC.
    Cover page: Manual motor-plan similarity affects lexical recall on a speech-generating device: Implications for AAC usersCreative Commons 'BY-NC-ND' version 4.0 license
    • Thesis
    • Peer Reviewed
    UC Berkeley Electronic Theses and Dissertations (2011)

    Short-term memory for words is typically described in terms of phonological storage and rehearsal. However, research has shown that task demands, such as alternative means of output, may alter characteristics of short-term word storage. Alternative / Augmentative Communication (AAC) via high-technology Speech Generating Devices (SGDs), typically used by people with profound communication impairments, involves production of words via device-specific motor sequences. No study, however, has systematically considered potential effects of SGD-based production on short-term memory for words.

    In the current study, modality of short-term word storage was evaluated in a group of adult typical speakers trained to use SGDs, as well as a small group of authentic long-term users of SGDs. Results indicated that neurotypical subjects continued to store word lists phonologically when using SGDs, while authentic users of SGDs demonstrated phonological encoding more strongly during recall of high frequency `core' words than during recall of lower frequency `fringe' words. Thus, phonological encoding appears to remain a robust means of short-term word storage across output modalities.

      Cover page: Phonological Encoding in Aided Augmentative and Alternative Communication
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