G. Nike Gnanateja, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Director, Speech Processing and Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Auditory processing of Speech Temporal Fine-Structure
The fast-fluctuating components of speech with frequency modulations close to the center frequency of the auditory filters, known as temporal fine structure (FS), and the slower varying amplitude modulations, called the envelope (ENV), are both crucial for speech perception. FS is particularly vital for understanding speech in noisy environments. While FS processing is susceptible to even minor auditory system damage, current hearing rehabilitation approaches often overlook the importance of providing better access to FS for individuals with hearing loss. I will discuss a new accessible speech-based assessment approach for evaluating an individual’s ability to utilize speech FS in challenging listening conditions. I will demonstrate how the validity of the assessment approach and the applicability of this approach across different listening conditions. These insights have significant implications for the assessment of speech FS processing and the development of speech processing strategies in hearing aids and cochlear implants.