Augmented reality is an immersive technology that leverages computer vision-based recognition to superimpose graphics, videos, and sounds in a real-world environment. Compared to other technologies, AR seems to be becoming increasingly ubiquitous. From the realm of gaming, it has seeped into other verticals, reinventing old practices and changing lives for the better.
The field of education is one such sector benefiting from the advances of immersive technology. To be exact, AR is transforming teaching approaches and improving children’s language development.
Let’s find out how augmented reality is empowering kids with speech difficulties.
Augmented Reality in Language Learning
Language educators and speech therapists now have more AR tools to play with for their classes. A growing number of applications in language learning support the communication needs of children. Such apps build on their strengths through flexible and highly engaging methods.
The implementation of AR in language teaching is showing positive outcomes, including improved attention, motivation, and academic achievement. Of course, AR apps in this field are at an early stage. Thus, there is not enough research to support the long-term effects and implications of AR.
Thanks to the widespread use of mobile devices, speech therapy and other language development programs are now more accessible.
One such example of an AR app that’s creating new learning opportunities for kids with speech difficulties is Speech Blubs.
What Is Speech Blubs?
Speech Blubs is an augmented reality-powered speech therapy application.
Four men who had speech issues in their youth developed the app. They went through the same challenges. Hence, they were able to design an app that they would have needed in their childhood. They equipped it with all the tools kids need to build the confidence to communicate.
In a poll commissioned by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, one in four US parents has expressed concerns about their child’s capacity to communicate. However, some parents often have to wait as much as two years to consult with a therapist and have their child thoroughly assessed.
That’s what Speech Blubs intends to change.
A mobile AR app makes speech therapy not only accessible but also more affordable for families. Before enrolling in speech courses, a child first goes through a free screening. Speech Blubs identifies issues that need to be addressed. Then, it gives parents a comprehensive report, highlighting the child’s speech and language performance. Moreover, the report gives parents tailored tips and advice for their kid’s needs.
How Does It Work?
Young children learn by imitating their peers. Keeping this in mind, the creators designed their app to provide nearly lifelike interactions, where children can mimic peers on the app. Since it is interactive, the program changes based on their actions. As they see that their actions are reinforced, kids can gain the motivation to practice. It also boosts their confidence.
Therapists sometimes use mirrors to help children realize that they are doing an exercise the right way. Similarly, Speech Blubs implemented fun role-playing filters to show the child what they’ve been practicing. They used AR to make this in-app activity possible, as well as science-backed video-modeling methods.
Furthermore, the app has other interactive teaching approaches including songs, puzzles, and riddles. They, too, aid in the child’s language development.
Speech therapy apps are on the rise. Aside from Speech Blubs, another app worth mentioning is also Otsimo. It is a voice-controlled app that’s also based on video modeling methods.
Between them, these two apps have helped children with speech delays, Down syndrome, autism, apraxia, and other conditions that can affect speech. As AR becomes increasingly widespread, more apps such as these will be developed. Hopefully, in the near future, no family should have to wait two years to give their child the proper care.
