Computer based Assessment of Phonological Processes in Kannada (CAPP-K)

Abstract

The paper introduces computerized assessment of phonological processes in Kannada (CAPP-K) to identify and profile phonological processes in language age of 2.0-3.6 year old Kannada speaking children. Sound by sound analysis of phonological processes was performed on 180 children in the age range of 2.0-2.6, 2.6-3.0 and 3.0-3.6 years using Kannada diagnostic photo articulation test (KDPAT; Deepa & Savithri, 2010). 16 processes were frequently occurring in 2.0-2.6 years, 11 in 2.6-3.0 years and 3 processes in 3.0-3.6 years. Most of the skills and an advantage for girls of younger age group was evident. Words errored by <20% of the children and their variant productions in three age groups were provided to software professional. CAPP-K was built using an Adobe AIR application. Picture naming response for child is required and clinician selects the template that best matches the child’s production. The output consists of phonological processes present in the tested child in graphical and printable form. Sensitivity evaluation of the tool developed on 60 children with Hearing impairment and Mental retardation proved sensitive. CAPP-K is very user friendly and a time effective software that minimizes clinician’s effort.