Web-based auditory training with easy versus hard task settings to improve speech and listening

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized experimental study tests how changing task difficulty affects learning during two versions of the PLUS auditory training (phonemic discrimination and competing speech) in adults with listening difficulties. Participants are randomly assigned to one of the two training programs and to either an easy or hard difficulty arm. Training is delivered online using phones or laptops and includes repeated listening sessions with measurements of on-task learning thresholds and off-task outcomes such as speech perception, cognition, and communication. The primary comparison is whether manipulating perceptual and cognitive demands changes training gains and whether any gains generalize to everyday listening and cognitive measures.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults (aged 18+ years, no upper age limit);
* Poorer performance on the DTT (SRT of -5.5 dB SNR or higher, as defined by Dawes, 2013) completed without hearing aid(s) for those who typically use them;
* Non-hearing device users or hearing aid(s) owner;
* Ability to read and understand English;
* Ability to provide informed consent;
* Access to the internet;
* Access to functional built-in speakers, external speakers, or headphones.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Failure to meet inclusion criteria;
* Having previous auditory training experience;
* Cochlear implant users.

Where it's running

• NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre
  Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Helen Henshaw, PhD — University of Nottingham
• Study coordinator: Natalie Lerigo-Smith, MSc
• Email: natalie.lerigo-smith1@nottingham.ac.uk
• Phone: +44 (0)115 8232600

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.