Speaker
Description
ObjectivesThis study introduces a novel approach aimed at improving phoneme confusion errors among adult CI users through individualized phoneme training via a mobile app.MethodsTwenty-five experienced adult CI users with a post-lingual onset of severe-to-profound hearing loss were invited to participate in a four-week phoneme training program using a mobile app. Participants were instructed to train for 20 minutes daily. The training materials were tailored to each participant's unique phoneme confusion errors, as determined by the outcomes of a phoneme test in a quiet environment.ResultsTwenty-one participants completed the required training. On a group level, participants significantly improved (>10%) on their overall targeted errors. On an individual level, both for trained phonemes and carry-over to word perception, training had variable results. All participants reported having enjoyed the training and would make use of the app in the future. ConclusionsOur innovative approach to individualized bottom-up phoneme training may enhance foundational speech perception at the phoneme level among adults making use of a CI. We anticipate that these improvements may contribute to improved speech understanding and communication outcomes. This app-based, self-paced training approach allows for greater autonomy and empowerment for these individuals.