Publication Date

1-1-2011

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Mayer, Jamie F.

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Allied Health and Communicative Disorders

Abstract

Treatment of severe aphasia has historically been very difficult to remediate, and efficacious treatment options for this type of aphasia are limited (Samo et al., 1970). A person with aphasia demonstrates impairment in the understanding of and expression of oral language. Also, due to the multi-modal nature of aphasia, an individual with aphasia will usually demonstrate impairment in reading abilities as well. The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not a computerized reading therapy program could augment auditory comprehension. Utilizing a single-subject, ABA design, we evaluated the effects of computerized ORLA (Chemey, 2010) on an individual with severe aphasia. Qualitative results yielded improvements in both auditory comprehension and verbal expression, as well as gains in confidence within the subject. Failure to establish a stable baseline led to the inability to statistically analyze results. Several of the testing modalities showed no marked improvement, and possible reasons for these responses are presented. This study signifies the need for further research into ORLA as it could be an invaluable resource for individuals with severe aphasia.

Extent

13 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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