Comparison of primary musicality development between children with cochlear implants and children with normal hearing

Abstract

Background: It is beneficial for CI patients listen to music. However it is necessary to take steps to improve the musicality of CI patients.

Objectives: The aims of the study were to evaluate the primary musicality of children with cochlear implants versus those with normal hearing.

Material and methods: Children participating in this study were divided into two groups: the cochlear implant group (CI group) and the normal hearing group (NH group). The ‘Musical Ears Evaluation Form for Professionals’ was used to evaluate the subjects’ primary musicality.

Results: The scores for overall and the three subcategories of primary musicality in children with cochlear implants and in those with normal hearing also improved significantly over time (p?<?.05). The score for overall primary musicality was not significantly different between CI and NH groups in the same hearing age (p?>?.05). There were significant differences between the two groups in the same chronological age (p?<?.05).

Conclusions and significance: The primary musicality in children with cochlear implants was not significantly different from normal hearing ones at the same hearing age. The primary musicality in children with cochlear implants was significantly lower than that of children with normal hearing at the same chronological age.