Effects of computer-assisted speech training on Mandarin-speaking hearing-impaired children

Audiol Neurootol. 2007;12(5):307-12. doi: 10.1159/000103211. Epub 2007 May 23.

Abstract

The present study investigated whether moderate amounts of computer-assisted speech training can improve the speech recognition performance of hearing-impaired children. Ten Mandarin-speaking children (3 hearing aid users and 7 cochlear implant users) participated in the study. Training was conducted at home using a personal computer for half an hour per day, 5 days per week, for a period of 10 weeks. Results showed significant improvements in subjects' vowel, consonant, and tone recognition performance after training. The improved performance was largely retained for 2 months after training was completed. These results suggest that moderate amounts of auditory training, using a computer-based auditory rehabilitation tool with minimal supervision, can be effective in improving the speech performance of hearing-impaired children.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Computers*
  • Female
  • Hearing Disorders / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Language
  • Male
  • Speech Therapy / methods*
  • Taiwan
  • Teaching / methods