The purpose of this project is to integrate speech science laboratory experiences with basic speech science course-work to promote active learning of the physiological processes of speech production and their relation to the acoustic speech signal. Laboratory activities have been designed to encourage investigation of speech processes and to involve undergraduate students in the method of scientific inquiry. A computerized speech lab is requested to enable students to examine the acoustic speech signal. Additional scientific equipment is requested to afford students the opportunity to objectively measure and quantify the various speech processes including respiration, phonation, and articulation. Through the proposed speech laboratory investigations, students will be able to enhance their understanding of the intricate relationships between speech physiological processes, to develop their skills in scientific methodology, and to increase their level of preparation for future graduate study.
