Information Retention and Overload in First-Time Hearing Aid Users: An Interactive Multimedia Educational Solution.

PURPOSE An educational intervention to improve knowledge of hearing aids and communication in first-time hearing aid users was assessed. This intervention was based on the concept of reusable learning objects (RLOs). METHOD A randomized controlled trial was conducted. One group received the educational intervention, and the other acted as a control group. RLOs were delivered online and through DVD for television and personal computer. Knowledge of both practical and psychosocial aspects of hearing aids and communication was assessed using a free-recall method 6 weeks postfitting. RESULTS Knowledge of both practical and psychosocial issues was significantly higher in the group that received the RLOs than in the control group. Moderate to large effect sizes indicated that these differences were clinically significant. CONCLUSION An educational intervention that supplements clinical practice results in improved knowledge in first-time hearing aid users.

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