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Updated: May 7, 2026

Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
Relationships between spoken word and sign processing in children with cochlear implants.
Marcel R Giezen1, Anne E Baker, Paola Escudero
1Laboratory for Language and Cognitive Neuroscience, San Diego State University, 6495 Alvarado Road, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92120. giezenmr@gmail.com.
Sign language exposure does not hinder spoken language development in deaf children with cochlear implants (CI). Two studies found positive correlations in language processing and no negative impact on speech recognition when using sign-supported speech.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Developmental Psychology
- Linguistics
Background:
- The impact of signed communication on spoken language development in deaf children with cochlear implants (CI) is a significant area of research.
- Previous research has yielded debated conclusions regarding the efficacy and potential drawbacks of integrating sign language with spoken language for CI users.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between spoken word and sign processing in children with CIs exposed to both modalities.
- To assess whether sign-supported speech negatively affects spoken word recognition and learning in children with CIs.
Main Methods:
- Study 1: Assessed rapid spoken word and sign learning in 13 children with CIs.
- Study 2: Tested the effects of sign-supported speech on spoken word processing in 8 children with CIs.
Main Results:
- Study 1 found a positive correlation between performance in spoken word and sign learning.
- Study 2 indicated that simultaneous perception of signs and spoken words did not negatively impact spoken word recognition or learning.
Conclusions:
- Sign exposure does not necessarily impede speech processing in children with CIs.
- These findings suggest that sign-supported approaches may be beneficial or neutral for spoken language development in some deaf children with CIs.
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