Effects of a Computer-Based Transcription Training on Clinicians' Accuracy in Identifying Spanish Dialectal Features: A Multiple-Baseline Single-Case Design

PURPOSE: The current preliminary study examined the effects of a computer-based training program designed to improve the accuracy of bilingual speech-language pathology clinicians in identifying dialect-specific phonetic features and distinguishing dialectal differences from speech sound disorders across various Spanish dialects. METHOD: A single-case multiple-baseline design across six bilingual Spanish-English graduate students was employed. The training intervention utilized the Teach-Model-Coach-Review instructional framework across two modules focused on dialectal feature identification and accurate classification of dialectal differences versus disorders. Data were graphed and analyzed for the presence of a functional relation between variables. Participants also provided qualitative feedback on the program's feasibility, usability, and relevance for clinical practice. RESULTS: < .05). These improvements were maintained over the maintenance period. Qualitative analyses indicated that participants felt increased comfort, confidence, and clinical preparedness after training. CONCLUSION: Findings support the efficacy of structured, computer-based dialectal training to enhance critical diagnostic skills among bilingual Spanish-English speech-language pathology clinicians by enhancing assessment accuracy and reducing the risk of misdiagnosis in Spanish-speaking clients.