LENA computerized automatic analysis of speech development from birth to three

LENA computerized automatic analysis of speech development from birth to three

This study investigated the relationship between the linguistic input children receive and the number of children's vocalizations by using computerized LENA (Language Environment Analysis) system software which is able to collect and analyze the data automatically, instantly, and objectively. Data from three children (two boys and one girl) at ages of 10, 20, and 30 months were analyzed. The results indicated that: 1) child vocalizations (CV) and child-caregiver conversational turns (CT) increased with time while adult word counts (AWC) children overheard in the background decreased; 2) CT is highly correlated with CV. LENA automatic device can substantially shorten the time of data analysis in the study of child language, and provide preliminary results for further analysis.