HOPE Notes: Music Rehabilitation for Cochlear Implant Users

Music appreciation training for cochlear implant users is a relatively new rehabilitation focus. Recent experience has shown that specific practice techniques as well as listening to particular kinds of music can be helpful in improving perception and enjoyment of music. Research has shown that structured practice may be helpful to cochlear implant users. This seminar reviews strategies that help music enjoyment for adults and older children and introduces a music rehabilitation program that was developed specifically for cochlear implant and hearing aid users. The program includes 10 songs that have been modified to make them more accessible to "electric ears" and provides guidance to users as to the melody, instruments, sounds, and lyrics being played. Lessons learned from this program may help individuals develop listening skills that can then be applied to other music.

This is a Recorded Course which requires either a Windows-based computer or a Mac with speakers/headphones to view. More information is available in the FAQs/Help section.

Length: 60 minutes

Cost: Free to View

Course Objectives:

• Upon completing this course, learners will be able to list strategies that can improve music enjoyment with cochlear implants.
• Upon completing this course, learners will be able to describe which types of music may be more enjoyable initially.
• Upon completing this course, learners will be able to explain the benefits of a particular music rehabilitation program.

Course Instructor(s):
Donna Sorkin, M.A. and Laura Blair, Au.D., CCC-A, Cochlear Americas