Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vocal self-perception and predictive factors in teachers

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to analyze the self-perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue in teachers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic; and factors related to sociodemographic and occupational data that could predict self-perception during the pandemic Methods Participants were 263 Brazilian teachers working from in-home office during the pandemic. They answered a questionnaire on sociodemographic and occupational data, adapted Borg CR10-BR for vocal effort ratings, Vocal Signs and Symptoms List, and Vocal Fatigue Index. The vocal self-assessment questionnaires were answered twice, considering the period before and during the pandemic. Results The self-perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue during the pandemic in teachers was lower than before the pandemic. In comparing outcomes due to vocal complaints, teachers with no vocal complaints presented lower values than those with vocal complaints. Teachers with vocal complaints during the pandemic showed greater self-perception of vocal fatigue. Teachers at early education, elementary, and high schools self-reported more vocal signs and symptoms before than during the pandemic. Conclusion In general, teachers report decreased vocal effort and vocal signs and symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers with vocal complaints have a higher perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue. The presence of vocal complaints and the variables related to vocal demand during the pandemic are related to the perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue.