This paper first traces the historical development of speech compression technology, which has made it possible to alter the spoken rate of a pre-recorded message without excessive distortion. Terms used to describe techniques employed as the technology evolved are discussed, including rapid speech, rate altered speech, cut-and-spliced speech, and speech sampling. A review of the research on the effects of speech compression on intelligibility and listening comprehension and their associated variables highlights methods of compression, linguistic factors, prior experience, binaural presentation, comprehension, degree of compression, listening and lecturer variables, pauses, training effect, retention, listener preference and acceptance, and degree of difficulty. Past instructional uses are examined in an additional research review which focuses on speech compression as it relates to visuals, individualized instruction, independent study, and reading instruction. The paper concludes with a state-of-the-art summary and a discussion of the implications as they provide a foundation and rationale for further study. A six-page reference list is included. (LMM)