Development and evaluation of a computerized Mandarin speech test system in China.
Computers in Biology and Medicine
|February 1, 2011
Summary
A new Computerized Mandarin Speech Test System (CMSTS) was developed and validated. This system accurately measures speech recognition threshold and performance-intensity functions, showing potential for audiology clinics.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Speech Science
- Computer Science
Background:
- Speech audiometry is crucial for hearing assessment.
- Existing tools may not fully cater to the linguistic nuances of Mandarin.
- A digital system can enhance efficiency and accuracy in speech testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a Computerized Mandarin Speech Test System (CMSTS).
- To create a digital platform for Mandarin speech audiometry.
- To assess the system's sensitivity and clinical utility.
Main Methods:
- Designed and digitally recorded Mandarin speech materials (monosyllabic, disyllabic words, sentences).
- Developed the CMSTS using Visual Studio, Access, and DirectX, incorporating listener and data management.
- Measured speech recognition threshold (SRT) and performance-intensity (PI) functions in 76 normal-hearing participants.
Main Results:
- CMSTS-derived SRTs correlated with pure-tone audiometry results.
- Sentence recognition was most affected by presentation level changes, followed by disyllabic words.
- Slopes of PI functions aligned with previous studies, indicating system validity.
Conclusions:
- The CMSTS demonstrates sufficient sensitivity for clinical use.
- The system can be a valuable tool for speech audiometry in Chinese audiology settings.
- Facilitates wider adoption of speech audiometry in clinical practice.
