Title | Computer-based workplace communication training in persons with traumatic brain injury: The work-related communication program. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2021 |
Authors | Meulenbroek P, Cherney LR |
Journal | J Commun Disord |
Volume | 91 |
Pagination | 106104 |
Date Published | 2021 May-Jun |
ISSN | 1873-7994 |
Keywords | Adult, Brain Injuries, Traumatic, Communication, Computers, Humans, Language, Workplace |
Abstract | OBJECTIVE: This proof-of-concept study presents a computer-based social communication training for spoken workplace interactions called Work-Related Communication (WoRC) training. This program implements didactic training, role-play, and immediate feedback using a simulation approach to improve spoken language performance. The unique target of this training is a category of linguistic markers called politeness markers which are essential for cooperative workplace exchanges. METHODS: We recruited eight adults with chronic traumatic brain injury. All participants demonstrated reduced politeness marker use in language sampling before treatment. This study had a quasi-experimental treatment design. We measured the rate of politeness marker use (politeness markers per minute) using the Voicemail Elicitation Task and novel role-play tasks, and the La Trobe Communication Questionnaire as outcome (dependent) variables. RESULTS: After training, participants demonstrated an increase in trained and untrained politeness marker use that was significant for the novel role-play tasks. The La Trobe Communication Questionnaire found that familiar conversation partners reported a significant increase in social communication skills. CONCLUSION: The WoRC program has implications for introducing a sociolinguistic foundation for social communication training in general and specifically for vocational placement. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2021.106104 |
Alternate Journal | J Commun Disord |
PubMed ID | 34049089 |