What type of testing utilizes headphones or earphones?

The type of testing that utilizes headphones or earphones is air conduction testing. This method evaluates how well sound is transmitted through the air to the inner ear. During the test, sounds are delivered through headphones or earphones, allowing the audiologist to assess the individual's hearing threshold and determine the degree of hearing loss.

Air conduction testing is essential because it reflects the overall functioning of the auditory system, encompassing the outer, middle, and inner ear. The response obtained through air conduction testing provides insight into whether the hearing loss is conductive, sensorineural, or mixed.

Other testing types, such as bone conduction testing, do not rely on headphones; instead, they use a vibrating device placed on the skull to bypass the outer and middle ear and test the inner ear directly. While audiometric testing encompasses various methods, including those using headphones, it is broader and not specific to the method of sound delivery. Word recognition testing also can be done with or without headphones but focuses specifically on understanding the clarity of speech rather than on overall hearing thresholds.