Fast ForWord for cochlear implants
Research summary
This pilot study involved eleven children with cochlear implants aged 4 – 11 years. The average length of implant experience was 2 years 5 months, and experienced language and auditory processing deficits associated with their hearing loss.
The Fast ForWord program was presented without modification for this population, with the exception of signal delivery – patch cords were used to couple the speech processor directly to the computer’s audio.
Research results
Tests used to evaluate outcomes
- Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF-3)
- Test of Auditory Perceptual Skills – Revised (TAPS-R)
- Token Test for Children
- Assessment of Children’s Language Comprehension (ACLC)
- Phonological Awareness Test (PhAT)
Fast ForWord research results
The children in this study showed consistent benefits on these 5 standardised measures of language and auditory processing. In addition to these objective measures, parents were asked to complete a 45-item survey of perceived changes in communication skills after training on the Fast ForWord program. Improvement was noted on 83% of the survey items.
Source
Schopmeyer, B., Mellon, N., Dobaj, H., Grant, G. & Niparko, J. (2000). Use of Fast ForWord to enhance language development in children with Cochlear Implants. The annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, 109(12) p.95
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