Improving parents’ interactions with children with hearing loss using data-based feedback

An AB single case design was used to measure the effect of data-based feedback for 6 children in a listening and spoken language early intervention (EI) programme in Australia. Changes in the number of parent-child conversational turns following feedback were measured using an automated language environment analysis system. The perceived value and practicality of the feedback model were also investigated. A functional relationship was demonstrated between the intervention and an increase in the number of conversational turns for 4 of the children. Therapists were able to implement the model with high fidelity and perceived the intervention to be effective in changing parent behaviours. Parents reported the feedback helped them to improve their verbal interactions with their children. This study has provided preliminary evidence that supports the feasibility and the positive impact of data-based feedback in a listening and spoken language EI programme.