In The Netherlands, tests for assessing auditory processing have been available since the beginning of this century. These tests can be administered through an audiometer with accompanying headphones and a CD-player or PC that provides the (speech) stimuli. This equipment is important, since the presentation level (volume) must be calibrated not only for the administration of the conditional tests and comparability with the control group, but also for comparability between both ears.
In various research projects and during clinical use in Audiological Centres, there have been moments when the equipment didn't work properly. It would also be useful if the scores were registered directly. The thought that 'there should be an easier way' has been around for a long time.
In May 2013, an advertisement appeared in the ASHA Leader about an iPad app: ‘Feather Squadron’. This app was especially developed to map out auditory skills. In New Zealand and the US, standardisation studies have already been executed with this English app and the results are promising (Barker & Purdy, 2016). From the knowledge of the needs of Dutch professionals, own experiences with the English app and a thorough review of the available information, the hypothesis arose that a Dutch version can fulfil a need.
Project description
The final aim is to make the app suitable for use by professionals whose work involves children who experience difficulties in hearing and understanding in complex listening situations.