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

This study aimed to explore and compare technology usage patterns, preferences, and challenges among young cochlear implant (CI) users and typical hearing (TH) peers, focusing on daily technology interactions, communication behaviors, gaming habits, and music listening methods.

The study included 108 participants, consisting of 54 CI users (M_age ± SD = 16.91 ± 3.77 years; 24 female) and 54 TH individuals (M_age ± SD: 19.17 ± 2.76 years; 29 female). CI users were unilateral, bilateral, or bimodal implant users with a minimum of 1 year of device experience. A specially designed questionnaire developed by researchers was employed to collect data on technology use, communication, gaming, demographic details, and device-specific information. A pilot study ensured content validity, followed by refinements and the implementation of a reliable 19-item survey employing a 5-point Likert scale. Data were collected online and in person, and analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U tests, chi-square tests, and correlation analyses.

Significant differences emerged between CI and TH groups in technology interaction patterns. TH participants scored higher in areas such as voice communication via phones, internet-based communication tools, and AI application usage (all p < .05), whereas CI users demonstrated higher engagement in gaming activities and preferred text-based over voice-based communication during gaming (all p < .05). Additionally, music listening methods differed significantly, with TH participants favoring wireless transmission and CI users preferring external speakers (p < .001). Older CI users showed higher engagement with various technologies, yet duration of CI use had limited correlation with technology utilization.

This study emphasizes the necessity of recognizing and addressing the unique technological preferences and challenges of young CI users. Enhancing accessibility features and providing targeted educational support can significantly improve their technological interactions and overall integration into the digital environment.