A scoping review of ecological momentary assessment and experience sampling methods in communication sciences and disorders research

J Commun Disord. 2026 Oct 30;125:106702. doi: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2026.106702. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This scoping review examined the use of ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and experience sampling methods (ESM) in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) research. Specifically, we sought to characterize current applications, summarize methodological and reporting practices, and identify gaps to inform future research. A systematic search identified 30 empirical studies, which were coded for study characteristics, participant populations, study purposes, EMA/ESM design features, outcome measures, adherence, missing data, and reporting practices. Hearing-related domains, particularly studies of hearing devices, listening environments, and real-world hearing experiences, represented a substantial portion of EMA and ESM applications in CSD. Across studies, there was substantial variability in sampling design, prompt frequency, study duration, technology platforms, and outcome measurement. Reporting practices were also inconsistent, with many studies omitting key methodological details such as adherence rates, missing data patterns, and analytic approaches for intensive longitudinal data. Despite these limitations, the reviewed studies illustrated that EMA and ESM can capture within-person variability and context-dependent communication experiences that are not readily reflected in traditional assessment approaches. These findings (1) highlight the potential of EMA and ESM to advance ecologically valid assessment, intervention, and outcome measurement in CSD, and (2) identify priorities for broader application, improved methodological transparency, and more consistent reporting of EMA and ESM studies in CSD research.

PMID:42998453 | DOI:10.1016/j.jcomdis.2026.106702