Tablet PCs have in recent years become part of our everyday lives. They have penetrated into various expert fields, especially in the field of education, rehabilitation and self-education.
In my thesis, I present the possibilities, as well as advantages and disadvantages of using a tablet PC in the work of a speech and language therapist.
I analyse the basic features of tablet PCs, possibilities of their protection and external accessories. I offer comparisons of operating systems Android, iOS (Apple), and Windows, as well as comparison of their technical characteristics (the size of devices, screen resolution, memory, processors, cameras, materials, etc.), everything with regard to its usefulness in speech and language therapy.
I examine the possibility of using the tablet for storage of video and audio material. I present various possibilities of using its other built-in functions, such as camera, sound recorder, notebook, access to the internet and web-stores. I present the possible ways of using the tablet at different stages and areas of work of a speech and language therapist. The thesis contains short descriptions of applications intended for work in the field of speech and language therapy, as well as certain applications primarily intended for the general public, that can also be used in speech and language therapy. I emphasize the problem of the lack of applications in Slovenian language, which would be highly useful for Slovenian speaking users, and the usability problems of applications intended for use in English or other world languages. I recommend caution when it comes to downloading applications, both in terms of computer safety as well as in terms of professionalism and efficiency of use of these applications.
I find the tablet PC a very welcome device that can facilitate and enrich the work of a speech and language therapist. It motivates its users and allows the therapist to work from a remote location, or the users to practice independently at home. It can be used in all areas of work and in all stages of speech and language therapy.
Despite the many dimensions of work enabled by the tablet PC, it essentially remains a device allowing only a two-dimensional perception of the world and, in most cases of use, a mere touching of a flat screen surface with a few fingers.
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