Acoustic Pioneer stands at the forefront of developing evidence-based digital tools designed to enhance auditory processing skills. Recognizing the critical role of effective listening in learning and communication, Acoustic Pioneer has created a suite of engaging software programs targeting key auditory functions such as dichotic listening, working memory, and tonal pattern processing. These programs, including Zoo Caper Sky Scraper, Elephant Memory Training, and Insane Earplane, are designed to be both effective and enjoyable, making auditory training accessible and beneficial for a wide range of users.
Dichotic Listening Training with Zoo Caper Sky Scraper
Zoo Caper Sky Scraper is a game specifically engineered to progressively improve dichotic listening skills. Dichotic listening, the ability to process different sounds presented simultaneously to each ear, is a foundational auditory skill crucial for various cognitive functions. Zoo Caper gently introduces dichotic concepts, allowing users to develop their abilities through gameplay. The game utilizes animal and speech sounds, presented dichotically, challenging the listener to accurately identify the sound source in each ear.
This program is suitable for individuals as young as five years old and can be recommended and set up by professionals. For optimal results, it is advised to play Zoo Caper twice a week, with the duration of use tailored to individual progress through the therapy levels. There is no set expiration or limit to the number of sessions, allowing for flexible and extended use as needed.
The Science Supporting Zoo Caper
The effectiveness of Zoo Caper is supported by research, including a study presented at ASHA in 2015, which confirms its benefits in improving dichotic listening skills. Furthermore, studies have consistently shown a strong link between poor dichotic listening performance and difficulties in learning and reading.
Dichotic listening proficiency relies on well-functioning neural pathways connecting each ear to the respective cortical hemisphere, as well as the communication pathway between hemispheres, specifically the auditory portion of the corpus callosum. These pathways are also essential for other critical auditory abilities, such as sustained attention, shifting focus between sounds from different directions, and understanding speech in noisy environments, like classrooms. Deficiencies in these areas can manifest as distractibility, difficulty comprehending lessons amidst background noise, and underutilization of auditory skills vital for academic success, ultimately impacting learning, reading, and language development.
For further reading on the importance of auditory processing and dichotic listening, refer to these publications:
- Barker, M.D. & Bourland-Hicks, C. (2020). Treating Deficits in Auditory Processing. Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools. https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/2019_LSHSS-19-00001
- American Academy of Audiology.(2010). *Clinical practice guidelines.*Guidelines for the Diagnosis,Treatment and Management of Children and Adults with Central Auditory Processing Disorder. Retrieved from www.audiology.org/resources
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2005). (Central) auditory processing disorders –The role of the audiologist(Position statement). Retrieved from www.asha.org/policy
- Bellis, T. J., Barker, M. D., & Martin, M. J. (2015) Training CAPD: The what, who, how, and why of Dichotic Listening Training. Presentation at ASHA conference, Denver. CO. November.
- Bellis, T. J. (2003). Assessment and management of central auditory processing disorders in the educational setting: From science to practice(2nd ed.). New York, NY: Delmar Learning.
Downloads for Zoo Caper Sky Scraper:
Enhancing Working Memory with Elephant Memory Training
Elephant Memory Training (EMT) addresses a significant gap in both audiology, speech-language pathology, and educational psychology: the need for a multi-sensory (auditory and visual) working memory program. Acoustic Pioneer developed EMT as a deficit-specific program designed to incrementally improve working memory in both children and adults.
EMT incorporates three distinct games within each session. It is structured for intensive use, recommended 4-5 times per week over an 8-week period. Each session, encompassing all three games, lasts approximately 10 minutes. It is important to note that EMT is not recommended for children under 8 years old. Psychological research indicates that approximately 30-35 sessions within a couple of months is the most effective approach for working memory training. Exceeding this session count has not shown to yield additional significant benefits. Therefore, EMT codes are designed to expire after 12 months or 60 sessions, whichever comes first.
Downloads for Elephant Memory Training:
Tonal Pattern Training with Insane Earplane
Insane Earplane is an engaging and accessible flying game crafted to improve a range of tonal listening and processing skills. This game introduces various tonal activities, including memory tasks, and utilizes pitched linguistic and non-linguistic stimuli through tonal patterns, frequency sweeps, and interaural timing/intensity differences. Insane Earplane allows players to develop proficiency in these critical auditory skills in an enjoyable format.
Professionals can recommend Insane Earplane for children as young as 7 years old, based on assessment needs. Similar to Zoo Caper, it is recommended to play Insane Earplane twice a week, with the duration adjusted based on the individual’s progress through the game’s levels. There is no expiration date or session limit, providing long-term accessibility for users.
Evidence Base for Tonal Pattern Training
Extensive research over the years has highlighted tonal pattern memory as a significant auditory processing area that correlates strongly with reading abilities. It is widely accepted within the research community that these skills are fundamental building blocks for learning to read. Phonemic awareness is recognized as crucial for strong reading performance, and research suggests a relationship between tonal pattern memory skills and phonemic awareness. While the exact nature of this relationship is still under investigation, both tonal pattern memory and phonemic awareness are essential skills to assess and develop to equip children with the best possible tools for literacy development.
To explore the research underpinning tonal pattern training and its connection to literacy, refer to these studies:
- Barker, M.D. & Bourland-Hicks, C. (2020). Treating Deficits in Auditory Processing. Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools. https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/2019_LSHSS-19-00001
- Corriveau,K.,Pasquini, E.,& Goswami, U. (2007). Basic auditory processing skills and specificlanguage impairment: A new look at an old hypothesis. Journal of Speech Language, andHearing Research,50,647-666.
- Smart, J. L., Purdy, S. C., & Leman, K. R. (2012). Evaluation of (central) auditory processing andphonological/phonemic awareness in 6-year-old children: A pilot study to determine test efficiency and inter-subject reliability Journal of Educational Audiology, 18, 6-15.
- Sharma, M., Purdy, C. S., & Kelly, A. S. (2009). Comorbidity of auditory processing, language, and reading disorders. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 52,706-722.
Downloads for Insane Earplane:
