The Value of Voice Banking: Exploring the Perspectivies of Speech-Language Pathologists

Date of Submission

Spring 2025

Document Type

Closed Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Department

Speech-Language Pathology

First Advisor

Maria Centeno-Vazquez, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Abstract

Purpose: Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an area within the scope of practice of speech-language pathologists (SLPs). A speech generating device (SGD) is a type of AAC which offers voice output based on user’s selection. Voice output options should be discussed to determine an appropriate fit for an AAC user. Voice banking may be an appropriate option to explore to create a voice output personalized to an AAC user. The purpose of this study is to examine SLP perspectives and experiences on the topic of voice banking. Method: Thirty participants who self-identified as SLPs were included in the study. Involvement consisted of a Qualtrics survey that was 20 questions in length that took participants approximately 10 minutes to complete. Survey questions consisted of demographic information, experience, and perspectives relating to AAC and voice banking. Results: Results from the survey reflected limited experience amongst participants in being involved in the voice banking process. Most participants agreed that voice banking is valuable for clients and that they would like to have more training on the topic of voice banking. Conclusions: The findings from the study suggest that voice banking is a valuable practice and there is a desire to have more training on this topic from most participants. Participants also identified multiple populations which they believe voice banking may be most appropriate for. Further research is needed to better understand perspectives, barriers, and experiences of clinicians, clients, and their significant others to identify the impact of voice banking on AAC implementation.

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