The yesterday's Technology Review addressed a bold new software designed to "spot autism early." The device, called the LENABaby, straps on to a child's front and records 12 to 16 hours worth of speech. Parents send the finished tapes and a supplemental questionnaire to LENA headquarters, where staticians painstakingly analyze the sound bites to detect language delays and/or signs of autism.
The device is not meant to replace traditional consultations, a LENA representative assured the Review. However, it can "help clinicians guide parents toward better learning strategies" because it provides insight into daily life that professionals do not have the opportunity to observe.
The LENAbaby is advertised at $200 and has been shown to be 91% accurate in detecting developmental delays. You can read the original overview here, and see more about the company who manufactures this device at http://www.lenafoundation.org/.
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