Innovations in Audiology

The student should have basic knowledge of Hearing Rehabilitation Technologies, Auditory Rehabilitation, and Vestibular Rehabilitation.

Expository classes using case studies and recent articles.
Debates and group discussions on the clinical and ethical implications of new technologies.
Critical analysis of scientific articles and clinical studies.
Student seminar presentations on an innovation topic in audiology.

National or international experts of recognised scientific, technical, pedagogical, or professional merit may be invited to collaborate whenever their participation is considered necessary and demonstrably beneficial.

To empower students to understand the latest technological and clinical innovations in audiology, focusing on practical application and future impacts on clinical practice.

Module 1: Innovations in Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants
1. Smart Hearing Aids
– Technological evolution: artificial intelligence and connectivity.
– Automatic functions to adapt to the sound environment.
– Challenges and technological solutions in sound amplification.

2. New Generation Cochlear Implants
– Advances in directional microphones and wireless connectivity.
– Impact of new implants on hearing quality.
– Limits and new frontiers of cochlear implants.

Module 2: Teleaudiology and Remote Diagnosis
1. Teleaudiology and Remote Diagnostic Tools
– Tools and platforms for remote diagnostics.
– The role of telemedicine in modern audiology.
– Benefits and limitations of teleaudiology.

2. Remote Hearing Tests and Digital Audiometry
– High definition audiometry.
– Apps and devices for hearing self-examination.
– Clinical implementation and challenges in the use of remote diagnostics.

Module 3: Future Trends in Audiology
1. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Hearing Rehabilitation
– Use of AR and VR technologies in auditory training.
– Benefits of virtual reality for fitting hearing aids.

2. New Trends: Biofeedback and Neurotechnology
– Exploration of biofeedback in auditory monitoring.
– Advances in neurotechnology and their impact on hearing treatment.

Module 4: Ethical and Social Impacts of Innovations in Audiology
1. Ethical Implications of Advanced Technologies
– The role of the speech therapist in mediating clinical decisions with innovations.

2. Accessibility and Equity in Access to New Technologies
– Challenges in making innovations accessible to different populations.
– The social impact of new hearing technologies.

National or international experts of recognised scientific, technical, pedagogical, or professional merit may be invited to collaborate whenever their participation is considered necessary and demonstrably beneficial.

Assessment continues:
Written work, which may not exceed 20 pages. The final grade must be at least 9.5 points.

Assessment by exam:
Written test on the contents taught in the Curricular Unit. The final grade must be at least 9.5 points.

NAO