Development and validation of Competing Sentence Test in Kannada.

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Auditory processing disorders can impact language development and academic performance in children.
• Assessing binaural separation skills is crucial for understanding auditory function.
• A validated tool for evaluating these skills in the Kannada language was lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a MATLAB-based Competing Sentence Test in Kannada (CST-K).
• To obtain preliminary normative data for the CST-K in children aged 8-12.
• To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the CST-K.

Main Methods:

• The Competing Sentence Test in Kannada (CST-K) was developed using sentences from academic textbooks.
• Sentences were recorded by a native speaker and validated by audiologists.
• Sixty children aged 8-12 completed the CST-K, with test-retest reliability assessed over three weeks.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference in scores was observed between the right and left ears.
• Significant age-related differences in performance were found.
• The CST-K demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability for the right ear and good reliability for the left ear.

Conclusions:

• The developed MATLAB-based CST-K is a validated tool for assessing binaural separation skills in Kannada-speaking children.
• The study provides reliable normative data for this age group.
• The CST-K is a valuable addition to audiological test batteries for evaluating various clinical populations.