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Measuring language development in deaf children with cochlear implants
1South of England Cochlear Implant Centre, Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ. jcb@isvr.soton.ac.uk
Summary
Cochlear implants significantly improve language development in profoundly deaf children. This study shows average language scores increase after implantation, highlighting the benefits of this hearing technology.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Profoundly deaf children in the UK have access to cochlear implants.
- Cochlear implantation aims to provide sound access for speech and language acquisition.
- Comprehensive progress recording is essential for this relatively new procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of cochlear implantation on language development in children.
- To identify a language assessment tool sensitive to changes following implantation.
Main Methods:
- The South of England Cochlear Implant Centre (SOECIC) implanted 78 children.
- The Preschool Language Scales-3 (UK) (PLS-3) was administered regularly.
- PLS-3 assesses language skills from birth to seven years.
Main Results:
- Average language scores showed improvement with the use of cochlear implants.
- The PLS-3 demonstrated sensitivity to changes in language abilities.
Conclusions:
- Cochlear implantation is effective in improving language acquisition in profoundly deaf children.
- The PLS-3 is a suitable tool for monitoring language progress post-implantation.