Reliability Analysis of the Arabic Speech Matrix Test

Abstract

Objective

Speech matrix tests offer information about a person's capacity to comprehend speech in noisy environments, which is an essential component of everyday communication, in contrast to pure tone audiometry, which primarily assesses hearing sensitivity. This study aimed to assess the test–retest reliability of the Arabic Speech Matrix test.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study that included three groups: normal hearing individuals, cochlear implant users, and those using hearing aids. Seventy-five participants were included in the study. The test was administered in two different settings with noise presented from various angles. The test was re-administered to participants after a 7–14 days interval, and Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and Bland–Altman plots were used to evaluate reliability.

Results

Moderate to excellent reliability was demonstrated, with higher consistency observed among hearing-impaired groups using cochlear implants and other devices. Minor learning effects were noted in the normal hearing group, with better reliability observed in the left setting.

Conclusion

The Arabic Speech Matrix test demonstrated strong test–retest reliability overall, indicating that it can be successfully incorporated into regular clinical audiological evaluations.

Level of Evidence

4