Validation of an iPod-Based Hearing Screening for a Pediatric Population

• Author / Creator

  Greidanus, Krista R

• Objective: This study we explore the validity of using the uHearTM application on an Apple Incorporated’s, iOS product to test hearing thresholds in a pediatric population.
  Methods: 52 participants, ages 5 to12 had their hearing tested in 3 ways. A portable screening audiometer was used as the gold standard for hearing. Hearing was also tested using the uHearTM app from Unitron and again with a set of noise reducing earmuffs. Additionally, a parent questionnaire was administered that explored behavioral factors that may have influenced performance.
  Results: Results indicated the uHear currently does not measure hearing thresholds as accurately as the audiometer, resulting in many false positives results. The parent questionnaire showed no strong correlations between the measures and the uHear results.
  Discussion: The uHear is not currently accurate in its hearing threshold measurement. However, it has some promising aspects that may make it a valuable tool in the future.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • IPod
  • Pediatrics
  • Hearing screening

• Graduation date

  Spring 2013

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Science

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3S725

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.