This article briefly describes sensory aids for individuals with hearing impairments, such as the visible speech translator, the cochlear implant, and the digital hearing aid, and identifies common trends. The article stresses factors affecting the development of sensory aids in the past and how these factors are likely to influence the future.…

The use of continuous discourse tracking to evaluate sensory prostheses for the hearing impaired was assessed in terms of the strategies used by the talker and responses elicited from the listener. Listeners showed small but significant differences in response patterns. Much larger differences were observed in the pattern of correction strategies…

A history of speech training technology is presented, from the simple hand-held mirror to complicated computer-based systems and tactile devices, and subsequent papers in this theme issue are introduced. Both the advantages and problems of technological aids are addressed. Simplicity in the application and use of speech training aids is stressed.…