Variability of speech rate and articulatory transition ability

Abstract

Purpose To analyze speech rate by applying two different methods: speech rate analysis considering the ratio of time/ fluent stretches of the sample and considering the ratio of time/200 fluent syllables Methods The speech samples from 73 participants of both genders, Brazilian Portuguese speakers, were analyzed. The analysis was carried out based on the parameters of Fluency Profile Assessment Protocol and compared regarding: speech rate (syllables per minute) and total time of the speech sample (in both reference and proposed methodology). Results The significant positive correlations found in the three analyses indicate that the variables concerning the measurement of speech rate by the two methods of analysis are related and move together. Conclusion Although the proposed methodology has proven to be effective, it proved unfavorable in comparison because it reflects proportionally the same results as the traditional methodology, but demands more time and manual resources.