Document Type

Dissertation

Date Created

12-2023

Abstract

Hearing loss prevention programs targeting youth have been implemented in many forms to teach younger populations about hearing health to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Some hearing loss prevention programs, such as Dangerous Decibels®, are based on health communication science and aim to not only increase youth’s knowledge about noise-induced hearing loss, but positively change their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors towards safe listening practices. The purpose of this project was to investigate how an educational computer game called Song of the Starbird could potentially be used as an effective hearing health promotion tool for students with normal hearing and students with hearing loss. Exposure to this game could improve knowledge and change attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors in youth related to hearing health. It can also be a fun way for youth to learn about how we hear, the effects of damaging sound levels, and what they can do to reduce their risk of noise-induced hearing loss. In Chapter 1, an extensive literature review was performed to establish a rationale for using a video game as an appropriate hearing loss prevention resource targeting youth 9-12 years old. In Chapter 2, the game’s application within the field of audiology, methods, and examples of implementation opportunities are offered. Audiologists play a key role in disseminating the game within their practice settings. Finally, Chapter 3 reviews gaps in the research literature and future research needs.

Abstract Format

html

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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