How Does Total Communication Affect Cochlear Implant Performance in Children?

Over the past few years, much attention has focused upon whether sign language, being a visual communication method, is compatible with the cochlear implant, an auditory aid. A substantial proportion of children with cochlear implants utilize sign language. Recent pediatric implantees in the U.S. are about equally divided between those who use Oral Communication (OC) and those who use Total Communication (TC). Although clinicians advising families on this issue may express strong opinions that contradict one another, these clinicians agree that strong language abilities are essential to the success of every implanted child. The purpose of this presentation is not to debate the value of Total Communication as a methodology. Rather, we rely upon research and clinical findings to establish the degree to which TC children benefit from cochlear implants. We also suggest ways to monitor communication progress in implanted children.