METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RAPID AND RELIABLE TESTING OF SPEECH INTELLIGIBILITY IN CHILDREN

A method and system for testing the speech intelligibility of a child comprises providing a set of target sounds as words in the presence and absence of competing sound(s) of a variety of types so as to enable an analysis of the aspects of competing sounds and their respective effects on the speech intelligibility of a child. Locations at which competing sound(s) is provided is varied to enable an evaluation of its effect on the spatial release from masking. The target words used in the test are first determined to be within the vocabulary of the child. The child is required to respond to the target word by selecting a picture representation of the target word from among several picture choices, thus providing an interactive aspect to the test. There may optionally be provided a positive or a negative reinforcement. The sound level at which the target words are presented may vary adaptively according to the child's responses, the change in sound level being determined by a set of rules. The test is repeated over several target words and under a variety of types and locations of competing sounds and the child's responses recorded in a results database. The results are available for further analysis by a user to produce customized output. A computerized system is disclosed that enables the provisioning of the test in a controlled manner, analysis of the data and further engagement the child.