The objective of the research is to better understand the perception of complex auditory signals. While previous research has concentrated on simple stimuli such as sinusoids or noise bursts, the aim of the present research is to study the ability to discriminate changes in the power spectra of broadband acoustic stimuli. The goal is to use the knowledge we have already acquired about the simpler stimuli and apply it to the perception of these more complex stimuli. Specifically, three areas are scheduled for investigation: 1) the prediction problem--how can the detectability of complex spectral changes be predicted from the detectability of simpler spectral changes? 2) speech-like stimuli--does the detection of spectral change differ for harmonic and inharmonic complexes? 3) dynamic spectra--how does time variation in the spectra affect the ability to detect spectral change? Understanding the perception of complex auditory stimuli will promote the understanding of the relationship between peripheral auditory processes and more complex central processes such as the perception of speech. It will contribute some of the basic information needed to provide a rational basis for diagnosis and treatment of auditory impairments.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01DC000334-06
Application #
3216601
Study Section
Hearing Research Study Section (HAR)
Project Start
1985-07-01
Project End
1994-06-30
Budget Start
1990-07-01
Budget End
1991-06-30
Support Year
6
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Florida
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
073130411
City
Gainesville
State
FL
Country
United States
Zip Code
32611