The Effects of Semi Occluded Vocal Tract exercises on voice quality in Lower Primary School Teachers

Abstract

Teachers are professional voice users who are highly susceptible to voice problems due to prolonged vocal demands. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Semi Occluded Vocal Tract Exercises (SOVTEs) on the vocal characteristics of lower primary school teachers. A total of 35 female teachers aged 30-50 years with a minimum of five years of teaching experience participated in the study. The results revealed significant improvements in acoustic voice parameters following an eight week SOVTE program, indicating enhanced vocal function. The study concluded that SOVTEs are an effective intervention for improving vocal health and may serve as a valuable strategy for the prevention and management of occupational voice problems among teachers.