Does fancy equipment make it easier to change a persons accent?
Absolutely not. The two best pieces of equipment are a well-trained ear and a high quality tape recorder. Speech Pathologists are trained to listen to and evaluate all aspects of speech. They are highly skilled at helping others produce new sounds and patterns beginning in easy contexts and progressing to conversation. A tape recorder is still the best piece of equipment as the tape can be quickly rewound to give you immediate feedback about your production. For homework assignments, you can choose between audiotapes, CD-ROM or Audio CD. How much practise is involved? Clients are required to practise at least one hour per day. This is absolutely necessary in order for the new sounds, rhythms and intonation to become automatic in their speech. Before the course starts, everyone is asked to sign a contract stating they will meet the minimum practise requirements.
