DSP-based speech training of hearing impaired children

Abstract

The paper describes the development of a speech trainer based on digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, for hearing impaired children. The DSP techniques investigated in the implementation of this software-based speech trainer, the final product' and its degree of success in actual use are highlighted. Children with congenital hearing impairments have difficulties in speaking, and even in making the basic sounds associated with speech. Speech therapists use specialized training methods to train such children. The first step in such programs is the training of the pronunciation of common sounds. The dearth of qualified speech therapists, and other facilities hinder the speech development of many children in need of such training. The computer-based training tool described here, will aid a child, with initial guidance from an adult, to master the pronunciation of initial sounds taught in a speech training programme. An analysis procedure has been developed to compare a hearing-impaired child's utterance with that of a normal person, estimate the degree of correctness and visually indicate this to the child. Through such an iterative visual feedback process, which also indicates the target for correct pronunciation, this software tool can guide the child to self-learn in a game-like environment