Towards robot-assisted children speech audiometry

Abstract

The paper describes the system and scenario for robot-assisted children speech audiometry after implantation of a cochlear implant for pediatric patients. The motivation behind presented work was to reduce stress and fear of children, who must undergo postoperative audiometry. We focused on Conditioned Play Audiometry in the form of a “picture tests”, where patients select one of pictures, which represent word/utterance just heard in Slovak. Robot NAO was used to play recordings to children. The described system is a proof of concept for robot-assisted children audiometry, which enables us to research aspects and possibilities in this field. We performed initial testing of the designed system and scenario with healthy children. First experiences show a positive influence of the children on their mood and motivation.