Assessment of speech perception in children with cochlear implants and tactile aids: what should the future hold?

The purpose of this paper is to propose a rationale for the future development of speech perception evaluation materials for children using either cochlear implants or vibrotactile aids as sensory prosthetic devices. It is suggested that future evaluation tools extend beyond the assessment of device efficacy. In particular, they should address issues of normal perceptual development in children, as well as the results of intervention with children using these sensory prosthetic devices.