How to Use Audiobooks And Podcasts to Develop Your Listening Skills

Using Audiobooks

Use an Audiobook and the Print Version Together

Listening to an audiobook as you read along with the same book in print (or as an eBook) can be useful for repeated listening practice. This type of ‘speech tracking’ can also be carried out with a communication partner who reads the text aloud as you read along.

It is advisable to expose yourself to a range of voices and perhaps accents as your listening skills develop. Audiobooks can provide this variety.

You may gradually reduce your reliance on the written material, or you may just use it to check when you are unsure of what you heard.

Activating subtitles for television shows and movies can have a similar benefit. Read along as you listen.

Adjust the Speaking Rate

You can adjust the speaking rate of the audiobook by varying amounts depending on the app or program you are using.

It might be helpful to slow down the speaking rate to begin with. As you become more familiar with the speech and language being used, return the speaking rate to the original setting.

Listen to Familiar Books

Listening to your favorite books or books you are familiar with will make it easier for you to follow along since you already know the storyline and characters. Some cochlear implant users also find non-fiction books easier to follow.

Visit the Library

Contact your local library or check out free libraries on platforms like YouTube to find out whether audiobooks (and the corresponding print books) are available to borrow.

Listening to Podcasts

Find One That Interests You

Podcasts are available for free download online and through various smartphone apps. With a broad range of topics from the latest news, to sports, gardening and pop culture, you are sure to find a podcast to keep you engaged and interested.

Keep It Simple

Try to find and listen to podcasts spoken in familiar accents with only one or two speakers. This will make it easier to follow along with what is being said.

Use Transcripts

Some podcasts offer written transcripts. It is helpful, especially in the early days following cochlear implant activation, to read along with the transcript as you listen.

Looking for some listening inspiration? Our MED-EL Podcasts are a great place to start!

Other Useful Tips

• Focus on listening alone in a quiet place rather than multitasking as this would probably lead to you tuning the audio out and relying more on the visual.
• Connect your audio processor to your device (mobile phone, tablet, etc.) with AudioStream, AudioLink, or a direct audio cable for the best sound quality while listening. If you have SONNET 3, you can even listen directly thanks to its built-in direct streaming.
• Does a family member or friend listen to the same podcast? Have they read the same book? Are you in a book club? Chat with others about what you listened to. This will help you check your understanding and allow you to exercise your auditory memory as you recall the facts, information, and topics you heard.

Looking for more ideas for listening practice at home? Take a look at our Adult Rehabilitation Kits (ARKs). Designed to offer structured and visually appealing listening practice, the ARKs incorporate auditory training, auditory and cognitive processing, and lifestyle activities for cochlear implant rehabilitation.

Also see our previous blog posts which include tips and tricks for home practice, as well as free printable handouts.