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Understanding speech, language and general communication is more than just hearing words with our ears. It requires that each person uses a ‘higher level of processing’ to combine information from different areas in the brain.

The speed and efficiency of speech perception is thus influenced by how skilled some of our brain functionality (i.e. in terms of memory, attention, (central) auditory processing, language, cognition, other sensory processing, learning, intelligence) actually is.

Some children and adults are known to have normal hearing thresholds, but show symptoms similar to those with sensorineural hearing loss - especially for understanding in complex listening situations (e.g. in the presence of background noise).

Studies show that children with an Auditory Processing Disorder, an Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a Learning Disability, a Dyslexia, a Speech-Language Delay, perform worse, especially in background noise, compared to their peers. This puts them under additional strain in the classroom.

The use of an FM system in their management has proven to be highly efficient and successful by enabling students to achieve:

• increased attention levels
• optimal spoken language understanding
• higher academic performance
• more consistent on-task behavior
• maximum speech understanding in noise
• improvement in classroom behavior

iSense (available to order November 2008) and it’s predecessor, EduLink by Phonak are FM systems specifically designed to address the needs of children with normal hearing thresholds, but difficulty understanding, learning or focusing in background noise.

iSense Micro is a micro-style, state-of-the-art FM receiver based on Dynamic FM, the new global FM standard from Phonak. It’s miniaturized, high-tech and open fit design makes the iSense Micro ideal to address stigma, practicality and acceptance.

iSense Classic is a trendy, mini-style, state-of-the-art FM receiver which also includes Dynamic FM, iSense Classic has various wearing options: like an MP3 player, lavalier style or in-the pocket. A thin cable brings the signal to the listener’s ears.

For maximum “Dynamic” benefit, iSense Micro and iSense Classic should team-up with the inspiro transmitter. The inspiro transmitter, worn by the teacher or parent can also be connected to an audio-input such as a computer, television, MP3-player, stereo. The transmitter will pick up the speaker's voice at the mouth and transmit the speech signal directly to the listener's ear. This facilitates communication, understanding and learning, which otherwise would not be possible or at best only with great effort.

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Phonak Inc., USA
4520 Weaver Parkway
IL 60555-3927 Warrenville

Phone: +1 630 821 5000
Phone II: +1 800 679 4871
Fax: +1 630 393 7400
E-Mail: info@phonak.com