The Design and Development of 3D Auditory Environment for Computer-Based Aural Rehabilitation Programs

Sound localization testing is a common activity in aural rehabilitation therapy conducted in clinics. In order to computerize this therapy, a 3D sound manipulation should be employed to aid such tests. In this paper, we present an implementation of 3D auditory environment that helps to produce sounds from different directions and intensities for the purpose of aural therapy. A User-Centered Design approach informed the selection and design of system features. The multimedia rehabilitation software takes into account the characteristics of human auditory systems in the evaluation of patient performance in this test and progress in therapy. The proposed sound localization test was evaluated by King Abdul-Aziz University Hospital and a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Aural Rehabilitation that was independent from the project. The evaluation shows satisfying results in terms of the test usability and effectiveness.