Game-based technologies as a tool for speech and communication development

Abstract

Abstract. The relevance of this study is determined by the increasing number of children with speech and auditory perception disorders in the context of inclusive education development, as well as by the need to implement accessible, effective, and methodologically grounded tools for corrective and developmental work. Contemporary practice demonstrates the limited availability of specialized didactic materials and their insufficient adaptation to individual children’s needs, which highlights the necessity of searching for alternative pedagogical solutions. The purpose of the article is to theoretically substantiate and practically investigate the effectiveness of using author-developed acoustic games in the process of developing speech, auditory perception, and communicative activity in children with special educational needs. The study employs methods of analysis and generalization of scientific and methodological sources, pedagogical observation, systematization of practical experience, comparative analysis of corrective work results, as well as elements of pedagogical experimentation. The methodological framework is based on the principles of psycholinguistics, special pedagogy, and sensory integration theory. As a result of the study, a system of author-developed acoustic games aimed at the integrated development of auditory perception, speech, sensory sphere, and emotional-motivational components was designed and tested. It was proved that systematic use of the proposed methodology contributes to increased learning motivation, activation of speech activity, development of cognitive processes, improvement of communicative interaction, and emotional stability of children. It was established that the combination of tactile-rich materials, game-based plots, and variable tasks ensures sustainable formation of speech skills and positive dynamics of psycholinguistic development. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the development of a comprehensive methodological system for using acoustic games as an integrated tool of corrective and developmental work. The practical significance of the obtained results is determined by the possibility of their application in the professional activities of speech therapists, special educators, inclusive education teachers, and early intervention specialists in both special and general educational institutions.