Efficacy of using people with aphasia to train healthcare students in effective communication strategies over the internet

The aim of the study was to explore the impact of a conversation with a person with aphasia via telepractice as part of a Communication Partner Training (CPT) program on speech pathology students. A two-parallel-arm randomised trial design with quantitative and qualitative measures was used. Thirty-three speech pathology students attended a lecture about strategies to communicate effectively with people with aphasia, then participated in a 10-minute conversation via videoconferencing with a person with aphasia one week later. Students were randomly allocated to patient feedback or no patient feedback conditions. Students completed a custom-designed questionnaire pre and post conversation. Statistically significant increases were found in students’ self-rated confidence communicating with people with aphasia, proficiency at engaging in everyday conversation, and proficiency with obtaining a case history post conversation. There was no significant difference between the groups according to feedback condition. Minimal change occurred in communication strategy recall. Student reflections indicated that they found the conversations a positive but challenging experience.