Unveiling Tech Trends: Exploring Tech Usage Patterns in Young Cochlear Implant Recipients.

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology

Background:

• Cochlear implants (CI) offer auditory restoration but may influence technology interaction.
• Understanding technology use in young CI users is crucial for digital inclusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare technology usage, preferences, and challenges between young CI users and typical hearing (TH) peers.
• To investigate differences in daily technology interactions, communication, gaming, and music listening.

Main Methods:

• 108 participants (54 CI users, 54 TH peers) completed a researcher-designed 19-item Likert scale questionnaire.
• Data collected online and in-person; analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square, and correlation tests.

Main Results:

• TH participants showed higher usage of voice communication, internet tools, and AI applications (p < .05).
• CI users engaged more in gaming, preferring text over voice communication (p < .05).
• Music listening differed: TH favored wireless, CI users preferred external speakers (p < .001).

Conclusions:

• Young CI users have unique technological needs and preferences requiring tailored support.
• Improving accessibility and providing targeted education can enhance CI users' digital engagement.