A Qualitative Evaluation of Treatment App Features for Children With Speech Sound Disorders

This research examined the cost and features of 20 speech sound disorder (SSD) treatment apps as part of the feature mapping paradigm. Methods included the development of a 48-item SSD checklist culled from the extant literature and sorted into 10 categories: linguistic level, feedback types, customization, image types, image iconicity, speech models, technical support, engagement, motor access, and activities. Two independent reviewers rated the apps on both iPhones and iPads. App cost was capped at US$25. Seven trends emerged for characterizing commercial contemporary SSD apps: (a) word-level stimuli and few exaggerated speech models, (b) general, but nearly absent speech production, feedback, (c) few customization opportunities, (d) varied, and some diverse, images, (e) varied technical elements and supports, (f) engaging and easily manipulated flash cards, and (g) number of features not necessarily related to cost. Child- and clinician-specific clinical implications are discussed.