Comparison of Auditory Stream Segregation in Children with Cochlear Implantation Across Duration of Listening Training

Abstract

Auditory scene analysis is the initial phase of this mental interpretation, and it is based on grouping processes. Spectral profiling is an important spectral cue for auditory streaming. Individuals with cochlear implants (CIs), find it difficult to understand speech in the context of competing speech or in the presence background noise. The study aimed to assess and compare spectral profile analysis thresholds between children with cochlear implants who have attended listening training for less than a year and more than a year. Two groups of participants were taken into consideration. Those in Group I were 15 children with cochlear implants who had attended listening therapy for less than one year after implantation. Group II consisted of 15 with cochlear implants who had attended listening therapy for greater than one year after implantation. Both groups underwent the spectral profile analysis test using the ”mlp” toolbox, which makes use of the MATLAB software's maximum likelihood approach. The result of the study indicates marked enhancements in spectral profile analysis thresholds among children who underwent more than a year of listening therapy demonstrate the effectiveness of prolonged auditory training in developing crucial auditory processing abilities. The findings highlight the critical role of auditory verbal therapy in enhancing the auditory capabilities of children with cochlear implants. By providing early and continuous training, these children can achieve better speech perception and auditory scene analysis, which are crucial for their communication and cognitive development. In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of sustained auditory training for children with cochlear implants.