Perception of prosodic features by children with cochlear implants: is it sufficient for understanding meaning differences in language?

Abstract

This study examined whether six children aged from 7 to 12 years using the Nucleus 22 multi-channel cochlear implant could perceive and understand meaning differences carried by prosodic information. The outcomes in perception and production of prosody were examined. These outcomes were assessed before and after participation in a ten-week intervention programme focused on improving perception and understanding of prosodic cues in linguistic contexts. The intervention programme was indeed effective in improving the participants' abilities. All six showed substantial improvements in their prosodic perception. The study also found that improved perception and comprehension of prosodic cues impacted on the associated skills of prosodic production.