A Web-Based Listening Test System for Cochlear Implant Research and its Validation for Remote Testing

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Web-based applications are gaining traction in clinical audiology.
• Remote testing offers potential benefits for research but requires validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate AUDITO, a web-based system for remote cochlear implant (CI) listening tests.
• To assess the validity and usability of remote testing compared to in-lab conditions.

Main Methods:

• Developed AUDITO, a user-friendly, web-based system for flexible listening test administration.
• Conducted a pilot study with 20 CI recipients comparing cable vs. Bluetooth streaming and remote vs. in-lab testing.
• Implemented tests for speech perception in sentences, digits in noise, and spectro-temporal resolution.

Main Results:

• AUDITO demonstrated reliable performance across various Bluetooth-compatible devices.
• Test results were consistent between remote and in-lab testing, and across different streaming modalities.
• User feedback indicated positive system usability and function, with no compromise in signal quality via streaming.

Conclusions:

• Web-based systems like AUDITO are valid for remote audiology research, including CI studies.
• AUDITO can improve data collection efficiency, research collaboration, and participant accessibility.
• The system supports diverse test paradigms and enhances inclusion in audiological research.