As practitioners dedicated to improving outcomes for children, understanding the nuances of how different tools and methods can aid communication is crucial. A recent study titled "The computer-assisted interview In My Shoes can benefit shy preschool children's communication" provides valuable insights into how computer-assisted interviews can enhance verbal communication in shy preschoolers. This blog will explore the key findings and practical applications of this research to help you improve your practice.
Key Findings from the Study
The study investigated the effects of the "In My Shoes" (IMS) computer-assisted interview on shy preschool children compared to a standard verbal interview. The results were promising:
- Increased Talkativeness: Shy children in the IMS group showed a significant increase in talkativeness during the rapport-building phase.
- Reduced Answer Latency: These children also demonstrated a decrease in the time taken to respond to questions.
- Less Encouragement Needed: The amount of encouragement required for shy children to speak decreased when using IMS.
Interestingly, the study found no significant changes in non-verbal behavior (e.g., eye contact and facial expressions) between the IMS and standard interview methods. Additionally, non-shy children did not show significant differences in communication outcomes regardless of the interview method used.
Practical Applications for Practitioners
Based on these findings, here are some practical ways to implement IMS in your practice:
- Use IMS for Shy Children: Given the positive impact on verbal communication, consider using IMS for children who exhibit shyness or reluctance to communicate.
- Focus on Rapport-Building: The extended rapport phase in IMS interviews, where children engage with interactive modules, can help shy children feel more comfortable and willing to communicate.
- Reduce Social Demands: The shared focus on the computer can lessen the social demands of the interview, making it easier for shy children to engage.
Encouraging Further Research
While the results of this study are promising, they also highlight the need for further research. Practitioners are encouraged to explore the following areas:
- Long-Term Effects: Investigate the long-term impact of using IMS on children's communication skills.
- Different Populations: Examine the effectiveness of IMS with children who have other communication challenges, such as those with autism or speech delays.
- Content Analysis: Analyze the content of what children communicate using IMS compared to standard methods to understand any qualitative differences.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The computer-assisted interview In My Shoes can benefit shy preschool children's communication.
