Image of 3D printed parts of hearing aids

Digital Audiology

Goals

The traditional hearing healthcare pathway can create unintended barriers for individuals with hearing loss pursuing care. The overarching purpose of Digital Audiology is to explore and develop novel technologies that can help increase accessibility and affordability of hearing healthcare. Together, we will embark on an adventure that aims to:

(a) Explore how 3D printing and 3D scanning can impact service-delivery of custom ear level wearables 
(b) Understand audiologists' and patients' perspectives regarding technology adoption and implementation
(c) Build capacity for adoption and implementation of novel technologies through creation of resources
(d) Explore alternative means of hearing health knowledge dissemination

Issues Involved or Addressed

  • Hearing healthcare accessibility 
  • 3D printing and scanning
  • Ear level wearables
  • Creation and dissemination of resources and research
  • Qualitative analysis 

Methods and Tech

  • 3D printing (SLA/ extruder printers)
  • 3D scanning (photogrammetry, structured light) 
  • 3D editing (Fusion360, Blender)
  • Semi-structured interviews (participatory design)
  • Video editing  (Adobe PremierePro, Davinici Resolve, CapCut)
  • Creation of infographics (Adobe illustrate, Photoshop, LightRoom, Canva)
  • Data curation and archiving
  • Technical writing
  • Outreach (story telling)

Academic Majors of Interest

Though open to all majors, we are most interested in students majoring in:

  • Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences 
  • Health Sciences
  • STEM

Preferred Interests and Preparation

Skills: 
•    General understanding of hearing healthcare, including current hearing health technologies
•    Familiarity with 3D printing technology
•    Teamwork & collaboration
•    Presentations and public speaking to a diverse audience

Attributes: 
•    Organized 
•    Independent 
•    Willingness to learn
•    Motivated 
•    Interest hearing healthcare
•    Interest in mentoring others

Application Process

To express interest in this team, please complete the VIP Interest Form and select "Digital Audiology."

Team Advisors

Bryan Wong, Ph.D., AuD, CCC-A

Matthew Briggs, MFA