Where software fits in speech practice.

Software can help with the repetitive parts of speech practice: checking that a recording is usable, choosing the next exercise, and keeping a record of practice. It cannot do the parts that need clinical judgment. A'ber is a speech practice companion that works this way: it handles recording-quality checks, exercise selection and practice tracking, while a speech-language pathologist handles assessment, goal setting and care planning.

Detailed content for this article is in preparation. Coverage will include where software adds reliable value (recording checks, practice records, exercise selection), where it does not (clinical judgment, social context, motivational coaching), and how to read the claims made by speech apps.