#Taiwan #Kaohsiung #MIRDC #AI-Guided Therapy #Speech-Language Therapy

MIRDC's Groundbreaking Achievement in Speech-Language Therapy

The Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC) has made headlines by receiving two prestigious 2025 R&D 100 Awards. Recognizing its innovative AI-Guided Interactive Speech-Language Therapy System, the awards include categories for Software/Services and Special Recognition for Corporate Social Responsibility. This recognition not only underlines the technological advancement of MIRDC but also its commitment to addressing the critical challenges in speech-language therapy, especially in Taiwan, where the demand for professionals far outweighs the supply.

The Challenge in Speech-Language Therapy

Taiwan faces a significant shortage of certified speech-language pathologists, with around 2,200 currently serving a population of hundreds of thousands of children with speech delays and autism spectrum disorder. Many children are at risk of missing vital windows for language development, an issue that current therapy tools fail to fully address. Traditionally, these tools focus primarily on articulation and pronunciation, offering minimal assistance with children’s oral expression or language comprehension.

The Solution: AI-Guided Interactive Therapy

The AI-Guided Interactive Speech-Language Therapy System developed by MIRDC stands out as a comprehensive, personalized solution. By combining game-based modules with generative AI technology, this system provides continuous therapy that is clinically informed.

Gamification is at the core of this therapy approach, with modules that incorporate clinically validated practices such as imitation exercises, picture prompts, and conversational strategies—all woven into engaging game levels aimed at accomplishing specific therapy objectives. These include aspects like vocabulary building, sentence construction, comprehension, and response accuracy.

As children interact with the modules, the AI component analyzes their responses in real time, delivering tailored guidance such as modeling, extension techniques, and conversation prompts. This adaptive response mechanism not only enriches the therapy experience but also encourages ongoing practice at home, fostering a more effective learning environment.

Measuring Success

After each session, the system automatically conducts a language assessment, measuring performance through 20 objective indicators covering semantics, syntax, and pragmatics. This assessment offers both clinicians and parents clear, evidence-based metrics regarding the child’s progress, allowing for data-driven decisions in their therapeutic journey.

Commitment to Inclusive Healthcare

Receiving the dual R&D 100 Awards has deeply motivated the MIRDC team, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility through technology. The projects guiding vision—to help every child find their voice and connect meaningfully with the world—remains their core mission.

MIRDC continues to innovate within the digital health landscape, confirming its role as a frontrunner in creating solutions that support children’s communication and learning, ensuring that no child is left behind in their development.

The collaboration of technology with healthcare promises a future where every child, regardless of their speech challenges, can achieve their full potential and engage fully with their surroundings. MIRDC's success with the AI-Guided Interactive Speech-Language Therapy System exemplifies this vision, showcasing the transformative power of innovation in the realm of healthcare.