Excellence in Research Showcased at Audiology Annual Undergraduate Research

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The Discipline of Audiology’s Annual Undergraduate Research Day was a resounding success, with students presenting innovative research on a wide range of topics impacting the field of Audiology.

Out of seven presentations, the group led by Zahra Mansoor, Xoliswe Mchunu, Thabile Thwala, Nkos’kwanele Mthembu, and Simangaliso Ngwenya, under the supervision of Dr Jessica Paken, was crowned the winner for their insightful study titled: “Hearing Aid Usage in the Older Population in eThekwini and its Impact on their Quality of Life.”

The winning project explored how hearing aid usage impacts the quality of life for older adults with presbycusis (age-related hearing loss). Through in-depth interviews with participants aged 67 to 84, the team discovered that hearing aids significantly improve communication, reduce social isolation, and foster emotional well-being despite initial resistance, adaptation difficulties, and healthcare access barriers. The study underscores the need for enhanced patient education and strategies to promote hearing aid use, particularly among underserved populations in South Africa.

In addition to the winning study, other groups showcased their research on diverse topics:

• “Elderly isiZulu Speakers’ Views on Hearing Loss” by Ms Nqobile Dladla, Ms Kamira Govender, Mr Tholumuzi Zungu, and Ms Sinethemba Hlophe (Supervisor: Ms Z Peter).
• “Evaluating TikTok Videos on Tinnitus” by Mr Thabiso Dlamini, Ms Nirmala Maharaj, Ms Phatheka Myeza, Mr Ndumiso Ntuli, and Ms Mahdiya Pattel (Supervisor: Ms S Panday).
• “Career Selection Factors in Audiology Students” by Ms Xena Bayana, Mr Raiden Govender, Mr Ndumiso Khanyile, Ms Amanda Mntambo, and Amahle Msomi (Supervisor: Dr A Gina).
• “Adjusting to University as Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students” by Ms Mahanoor Ahmed, Ms Kayla Percival, Ms Philasande Shange, and Ms Nomthandazo Mofokeng (Supervisor: Ms N B Khan).
• “Mental Well-being of Audiology Undergraduates” by Ms Kiara Mudray, Mr Diniel Naidoo, Ms Thandiwe Ndlangamandla, and Ms Nokwethemba Mdlalose (Supervisor: Mr Musa Makhoba).
• “Impact of Childhood Hearing Loss on Caregivers’ Well-being” by Ms Suwayba Adams, Ms Akhona Khumalo, Ms Mandisa Ntshangase, Ms Noluthando Shezi, and Mr Mlungisi Xulu (Supervisor: Ms S Mbhele).

The event highlighted Audiology students’ commitment to addressing critical issues in hearing health. The day also emphasised the importance of research in advancing understanding and improving the quality of life for individuals with hearing-related challenges.

One of the adjudicators, Professor Karin Joubert from the University of the Witwatersrand, congratulated all the students and supervisors for their exceptional contributions to the field.

Words and photograph: Nombuso Dlamini