Effectiveness of Chewing Technique on Vocal Phonation among Speech Language Pathology Students: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Voice is an essential tool for communication and professional performance, particularly among speech-language pathology students who are exposed to high vocal demands. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the chewing technique on vocal phonation among female speech-language pathology students. Thirty female students aged 18–20 years were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 14). The experimental group practiced the chewing technique for 8 weeks, while the control group received no intervention. Acoustic and aerodynamic parameters, including Jitter (%), Shimmer (%), Noise-to-Harmonics Ratio (NHR), Fundamental Frequency (f0) and Maximum Phonation Time (MPT) were assessed before and after intervention using PRAAT software and stopwatch measures. The results demonstrated significant improvements in Jitter, Shimmer, NHR and fundamental frequency in the experimental group following the intervention, indicating enhanced vocal stability, improved voice quality and better phonatory control. However, no significant improvement was observed in Maximum Phonation Time. These findings suggest that the chewing technique is an effective voice facilitation method for improving selected acoustic aspects of vocal phonation among female speech-language pathology students and may serve as a useful preventive strategy for maintaining vocal health in individuals with high vocal demands. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods is recommended to establish its long-term effectiveness and clinical applicability.