Comparing fixed- and randomized-interval spaced retrieval in anomia treatment

Spaced retrieval (SR) has recently been modified to target anomia in persons with aphasia (PWA). It relies on a strict management of the inter-stimulus interval (ISI) where the time between stimulus presentations is doubled or halved based on response accuracy. Although SR is successful in treating anomia, it remains to be studied whether the strict ISI management is necessary. The present study compared fixed-interval spaced retrieval (FISR) to randomized-interval spaced retrieval (RISR) in anomia treatment. Using alternating treatments single subject design, three PWA were trained to name 30 target items. Although both treatments were successful, the present data did not reveal one approach as superior even though fewer FISR sessions were needed and more FISR items were maintained on the post-treatment probes. This difference was only minimal suggesting that a less stringent stimulus schedule, as used in RISR, is sufficient for successful treatment outcome.Learning outcomesReaders will be able to describe the spaced retrieval treatment approach using both fixed- and randomized-interval stimulus schedules, as well as applications of this technique in the treatment of anomia in aphasia.