Challenges in the development of a fully autonomous auditory training and testing system

The Computerized Auditory Training (CAT) pilot study is a feasibility study utilizing android tablets to remotely administer auditory training and conduct auditory assessments. The goal of the study is to examine user acceptability and the effectiveness of different types of auditory training modules. The CAT protocol administers a predetermined regimen of auditory training sessions interleaved with structured auditory assessments that are designed to track subject progress over time. Participants choose the type of training they want to perform from options that include both interactive game-based training modules and more conventional modules based on standard adaptive psychophysical procedures. Timers are utilized to limit the amount of training that can be performed in a single session. Here, we will discuss some of the challenges in the development of the system and the strategies employed to address them, including (a) the ability to maintain control over the level and frequency response of the acoustic signal presented to the listener; (b) the ability to monitor the background noise level during training and testing; (c) the ability to remotely track participant progress and provide incremental payments for subject participation; and (d) the ability to remotely access and analyze participant data. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of Army, Department of Defense, or U.S. Government.