Enhancing Independent Auditory and Speechreading Training – Two Finnish Free Mobile Applications Constructed for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children and Adults

Abstract

The users of hearing technology often need auditory training for getting used to their hearing devices and maximally benefiting from them. Because auditory training given by professionals is only sparsely available, there is a great need for materials and applications with which self-training is possible. Moreover, deaf and hard-of-hearing persons need to improve their speechreading skills to help in speech reception and children to strengthen their reading skills. We describe the background, contents, construction and features of two Finnish free applications: Auditory Track for auditory training and Optic Track for speechreading (lip reading) training. Both can be used by children and adults, even though the Auditory Track is mainly aimed at adults and the Optic Track at primary school age children. The features of both applications include exercises carefully selected based on extensive knowledge of the acoustic and visual characteristics of speech. In addition, during the implementation of both applications, careful attention has been paid to the usability, accessibility, gamification and construction of feedback systems. The applications developed can be used in independent training, clinical use and research.