Vocal Behavior Acquisition with a Toy Operating by Sound Detection.

Abstract

We investigated a speech training support system targeting students in special needs education classes who are engaged in training to acquire a binary relationship where their vocalizations elicit reactions from others. Previously, there was a challenge in maintaining interest and achieving learning effectiveness when teachers intervened to encourage vocalizations using teaching aids such as picture books. To address this, we designed and integrated an electronic circuit with a movable toy that captures the interest of the supported students. The circuit includes a switch that turns on and activates a secondary circuit only when vocalizations are detected. In this paper, we report on the training using the developed speech support system and validate its functionality.