Possibilities for Identification and Prevention of Voice Disorders Among Primary School Teachers

Abstract

The article presents a qualitative study, which aims to reveal the experiences and knowledge of primary school teachers regarding voice disorders and vocal hygiene. The study involved 11 primary school teachers. The findings of the interview revealed insufficient teachers’ knowledge about vocal hygiene and the presence of improper vocal use, such as vocal overuse, phonatory tension, and incorrect vocal techniques. Most of the participants have experience with voice problems but do not know how to use vocal hygiene in their professional life. Furthermore, interview analysis revealed that primary school teachers often rely on recommendations which are not scientifically based and demonstrate limited awareness of vocal hygiene and strategies for the prevention of voice disorders. 
Also, the study was aimed to evaluate the vocal characteristics of primary school teachers before and after vacation. Praat software and audio recording analysis were used to analyse voice records. An acoustic analysis of voice recordings collected before and after vacation indicated that vocal rest positively influences voice quality and disclosed improved acoustic parameters. These findings highlight the need for voice health education among teachers and the integration of vocal hygiene into teacher training programs.