title: Participatory design of a music aural rehabilitation programme.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Many cochlear implant (CI) users wish to enjoy music but are dissatisfied by its quality as perceived through their implant. Although there is evidence to suggest that training can improve CI users' perception and appraisal of music, availability of interactive music-based aural rehabilitation for adults is limited. In response to this need, an 'Interactive Music Awareness Programme' (IMAP) was developed with and for adult CI users.
  
  
  METHODS
  An iterative design and evaluation approach was used. The process began with identification of user needs through consultations, followed by use of mock-up applications in workshops. Feedback from these were used to develop the prototype IMAP; a programme of 24 interactive sessions, enabling users to create and manipulate music. The prototype IMAP was subsequently evaluated in a home trial with 16 adult CI users over a period of 12 weeks.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Overall ratings for the prototype IMAP were positive and indicated that it met users' needs. Quantitative and qualitative feedback on the sessions and software in the prototype IMAP were used to identify aspects of the programme that worked well and aspects that required improvement. The IMAP was further developed in response to users' feedback and is freely available online.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The participatory design approach used in developing the IMAP was fundamental in ensuring its relevance, and regular feedback from end users in each phase of development proved valuable for early identification of issues. Observations and feedback from end users supported a holistic approach to music aural rehabilitation.
authors.forename: Rachel M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: van Besouw
authors.forename: Benjamin R
authors.initials: BR
authors.lastname: Oliver
authors.forename: Sarah M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Hodkinson
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Polfreman
authors.forename: Mary L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Grasmeder
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001307:Auditory Perception; D019929:Cochlear Implantation / Q000523:psychology; D003054:Cochlear Implants; D012048:Correction of Hearing Impairment / Q000379:methods*; D034381:Hearing Loss / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D009146:Music / Q000523:psychology*; D009147:Music Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D020380:Needs Assessment; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012984:Software
keywords: Cochlear implant; Computer-based training; Interactive learning; Music aural rehabilitation; Participatory design