Fast ForWord
Fast ForWord includes several training programs
that are individually adaptive and interactive
computerized language-learning programs that incorporate
the latest neurological research in brain plasticity
(the scientific principle that the brain is able
to learn at any age). These intensive, computerized
programs are designed to help people increase
the rate at which their brains can process auditory
information, which then enhances abilities in
communication, reading, writing, and spelling.
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Fast ForWord - Scientifically Proven
Training Programs
Fast ForWord brings us the first scientifically proven
training programs that help people achieve improvements
in speech/language skills, such as auditory memory,
phonemic awareness and analysis, in just 6-8 weeks on
the program for 100 minutes a day for 5 days a week.
Based on two decades of research on how the brain learns,
Fast ForWord also makes unprecedented use of the latest
multimedia and Internet software technology to address
the underlying causes of these language-learning impairments.
Innovative Therapies’ Director and Speech/Language
Pathologist, Aditi Silverstein, MA, CCC-SLP, has been
providing Fast ForWord for over 8 years locally and
over 4 years in the United Kingdom. In addition, Ms.
Silverstein is now training professionals in the UK
to provide the Fast ForWord language-learning programs
to their own clients.
As of 2003, there are four programs in the series.
Fast ForWord Language is appropriate
for children ages 5-12, while Fast ForWord Middle
& High School is geared toward adolescents
and adults. Fast ForWord Language to Reading
is the subsequent program offered to certain participants
after mastering Fast ForWord Language or Middle &
High School. Fast ForWord Reading
is a curriculum-based reading program
that is appropriate for children with at least a third-grade
reading level.
Fast ForWord Benefits - Who
can benefit from Fast ForWord?
Participants usually display improvement in auditory
processing speed, working memory, serial order processing,
phonological awareness, listening comprehension, syntax,
and morphology. In addition to the measurable gains
in language, it is often reported that children who
have completed Fast ForWord are better able to interact
with parents, teachers, and peers. New language skills
often empower children to participate in the world
in ways that were not possible before Fast ForWord
training. Participants also display improvement in
overall communication skills, as well as listening,
thinking, and reading skills, and increased participation
in group or class discussions.
Fast ForWord Requirements -
What is required to participate in Fast ForWord?
Participants must receive an initial evaluation to
determine eligibility for the program. The intensive
training sessions require 90-100 minutes daily, five
days per week, for an average of 6-8 weeks. Following
training, participants then receive a post-treatment
evaluation. To qualify for the program, a child must
be able to stay focused on the computer for 20-minute
segments, must learn to tolerate the use of headphones
during treatment, and be able to use a computer mouse.
Fast ForWord - Can Fast ForWord
be done at home or school?
As a computerized, internet-based program, it is
possible to take advantage of this specialized therapy
modality in the clinic or at home or school under
the guidance of a certified Fast ForWord practitioner.
To do the program at home means that the parent monitors
the child’s daily work on the computer. Then
the information is uploaded over the Internet each
evening. We receive the information via the Internet
and monitor the participant’s progress daily.
We keep you informed of progress on a weekly basis,
and help you to work with your child in the most productive
way possible. Schools can also conduct the program,
making the programs more widely accessible to more
students.
Why use Innovative Therapies?
Aditi E. Silverstein, MA, CCC-SLP, President/Founder
of Innovative Therapies is a certified
practitioner of Fast
ForWord training programs, having completed Scientific
Learning Corporation’s Certification Course
offered by Dr. Paula Tallal in 1996. In addition,
Ms. Silverstein in the only trainer of Fast ForWord
practitioners in the United Kingdom.
For information about a Fast ForWord home or school
program in Virginia or in the United
Kingdom, you may contact Aditi Silverstein, MA,
CCC-SLP directly at innovativetx@att.net.
For further information and research results about
Fast ForWord programs, check out the Fast ForWord website
at www.scientificlearning.com.
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