Table of Contents
Overview
Definition of Speech Perception
Speech perception is defined as the process by which individuals interpret and understand spoken language. This complex cognitive function is grounded in general principles that also apply to other acoustic events and modalities, highlighting its interdisciplinary nature, which encompasses fields such as phonology, phonetics, cognitive psychology, and auditory science.[4.1] The process involves recognizing speech sounds and utilizing this information to comprehend language, even in challenging auditory environments. For instance, the cocktail party effect exemplifies how individuals can focus on a single conversation while filtering out background noise, demonstrating the brain's ability to prioritize important auditory signals.[3.1] Moreover, advancements in neurobiological research have enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms underlying speech perception. Techniques such as brain imaging and stimulation have revealed insights into the networks involved in processing speech, indicating that this area of study is dynamic and continually evolving.[5.1] Overall, speech perception is a fundamental aspect of human communication, enabling effective interaction in diverse auditory contexts.Importance in Communication
Accents play a crucial role in shaping perceptions during communication, significantly influencing judgments about an individual's intelligence, trustworthiness, and social status. Research indicates that accents can alter how speakers are perceived, which has profound implications for interpersonal interactions and societal dynamics.[25.1] In the context of American English, specific vowel sounds are pivotal for listeners to detect accents. These vowel shifts can vary subtly based on regional, social, or personal factors, highlighting the complexity of speech perception.[26.1] Furthermore, in an increasingly globalized society, the study of speech accents has gained relevance, as unfamiliar or accented speech can hinder comprehension. This challenge is underscored by numerous studies demonstrating that listeners often struggle with understanding accented speech due to its unique characteristics.[27.1] Background noise also significantly impacts speech perception, presenting additional challenges for effective communication. Research has shown that background noise can detrimentally affect the intelligibility of speech, particularly for individuals with speech disorders. This suggests that the presence of environmental factors can compound difficulties in understanding speech.[29.1] Overall, these elements underscore the importance of considering both accent and environmental context in the study of speech perception, as they are critical to effective communication in diverse settings.History
Early Research (1950-1965)
During the early years of research on speech perception, particularly from 1950 to 1965, significant theoretical debates emerged regarding the mechanisms underlying the processing of speech sounds. One of the central discussions revolved around whether speech perception relied on specialized neural mechanisms unique to speech and language or whether it could be explained through general perceptual and cognitive processes applicable to various phenomena.[45.1] The period from 1950 to 1965 marked significant developments in the understanding of speech perception, particularly with the introduction of the Motor Theory of Speech Perception. This theory, primarily associated with the work of Liberman and his colleagues, proposed a fundamental relationship between speech production and perception, suggesting that the motor system plays an active role in how speech is perceived.[46.1] Speech perception itself is defined as the process by which the sounds of language are heard, interpreted, and understood, and it involves complex perceptual and cognitive tasks that map the acoustics of spoken language to meaning.[44.1] The study of speech perception is closely linked to the fields of phonology and phonetics in linguistics, as well as cognitive psychology.[44.1]Development of Key Theories (1965-1995)
The period from 1965 to 1995 marked a significant advancement in the theoretical understanding of speech perception, particularly with the introduction of the Motor Theory of Speech Perception. Proposed by Liberman, Cooper, Shankweiler, and Studdert-Kennedy in 1967, this theory posits that individuals perceive spoken words by referencing how they are produced. Specifically, it suggests that listeners access their own knowledge of how phonemes are articulated, rather than merely recognizing the sound patterns generated by speech.[60.1] The Motor Theory originally claimed that speech perception is facilitated by a specialized cognitive module that is innate and specific to humans, emphasizing the connection between speech production and perception.[59.1] In addition to the Motor Theory, other theoretical approaches emerged, including Direct Realism and the Computational Approach. Direct Realism asserts that listeners perceive speech directly from the acoustic signal without the need for intermediate cognitive processes, while the Computational Approach emphasizes the role of cognitive computations in interpreting speech sounds.[47.1] These theories contributed to a broader understanding of how acoustic properties of speech sounds relate to meaning, with Stevens's model of lexical access highlighting the connection between articulatory configurations and the encoded information in speech signals.[58.1] The development of non-native speech perception models also gained traction during this period. Notable models include the Speech Learning Model, the Perceptual Assimilation Model, the Native Language Magnet model, and the Second Language Linguistic Perception model. These frameworks aimed to explain how individuals perceive and process speech sounds that differ from their native language, thereby expanding the scope of speech perception research.[47.1] Advancements in neuroimaging techniques during this era further enriched the understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying speech perception. Functional neuroimaging methods allowed researchers to investigate language function in healthy brains, revealing insights into the brain regions involved in language processing.[49.1] This shift in focus towards the neurological bases of speech perception underscored the interplay between behavioral techniques and neurobiological research, paving the way for future explorations into the cognitive and neural underpinnings of language acquisition and processing.Recent Advancements
Technological Innovations
Recent advancements in haptic technology have the potential to significantly enhance speech perception for individuals with hearing impairments. Haptic hearing aids, which convert audio signals into tactile stimulation, are becoming increasingly viable for supporting people with hearing loss.[78.1] Historical work in this area dates back to the 1920s, when a desktop haptic device was trialed to assist deaf children in the classroom by stimulating their fingers, which reportedly increased the number of words they could discern while lip reading.[86.1] Furthermore, contemporary approaches to haptic stimulation have been designed for real-world applications, such as delivering tactile feedback to the wrists, where devices are commonly worn. This innovative signal-processing strategy could effectively improve spatial hearing for a range of hearing-impaired listeners.[85.1] Moreover, advancements in wide-band haptic actuator technology have made audio-to-tactile conversion strategies more viable for wearable devices, potentially improving speech perception for users.[77.1] Historical context reveals that haptic stimulation has been utilized since the 1920s, with early devices aiding deaf children in classrooms by stimulating the fingers to enhance their ability to lip-read and understand spoken language.[86.1] In addition to haptic technology, machine learning has revolutionized automatic speech recognition (ASR) and text-to-speech synthesis (TTS), enabling systems to recognize spontaneous speech in complex acoustic environments.[83.1] This paradigm shift is expected to enhance our understanding of cognitive processes involved in speech perception, particularly in how auditory information is processed and interpreted.[82.1] Furthermore, visual speech recognition techniques that analyze facial and lip movements have emerged as effective methods for improving speech perception in noisy settings, demonstrating the multisensory nature of speech understanding.[84.1] These innovations collectively underscore the dynamic interplay between technology and speech perception, paving the way for more effective communication aids for individuals with hearing impairments.Interdisciplinary Approaches
Recent research in speech perception has increasingly adopted interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from linguistics, psychology, neuroscience, and audiology. One significant area of focus is the interaction between phonemic distinctions and lexical knowledge, which shapes our understanding of speech across different languages and dialects. The interactive model theorizes that lexical access involves a dynamic exchange of information between phonological and semantic layers, influencing how speech is perceived and understood.[103.1] This relationship is particularly important in the context of bilingualism, where the interplay of phonetic and phonological processes can vary significantly, cautioning against broad generalizations about cross-language interactions.[106.1] Neuroscientific studies utilizing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have also contributed to our understanding of multisensory processing in speech perception. These studies reveal that visual cues, such as a speaker's mouth movements, play a crucial role in enhancing speech perception, especially when auditory signals are degraded.[101.1] The integration of auditory and visual speech cues has been shown to activate specific brain regions involved in processing both types of information, suggesting that multisensory approaches could enhance therapeutic strategies for individuals with speech perception difficulties.[102.1] Furthermore, age-related factors have been shown to influence speech perception, with older adults often experiencing declines in their ability to process speech, particularly in noisy environments.[99.1] This decline is associated with changes in auditory processing regions of the brain, highlighting the importance of considering individual differences, such as age and cognitive abilities, in developing effective communication strategies.[99.1]Theoretical Frameworks
Motor Theory
The motor theory of speech perception is a prominent framework within cognitive psychology, positing that the processes involved in perceiving speech are fundamentally linked to the motor actions associated with producing speech. This theory, notably articulated by Liberman and colleagues in the late 1960s and 1980s, asserts three main claims: first, that speech processing is a unique cognitive function; second, that perceiving speech equates to perceiving the gestures of the vocal tract; and third, that speech perception engages the speech motor system directly.[114.1] The motor theory of speech perception is one of the most cited theories in cognitive psychology, positing that speech processing is a unique cognitive function.[114.1] This theory asserts that perceiving speech is fundamentally linked to perceiving the gestures of the vocal tract, suggesting that understanding speech involves accessing the speech motor system.[114.1] Speech perception itself is defined as the process by which the sounds of language are heard, interpreted, and understood, and it is closely associated with the fields of phonology and phonetics in linguistics, as well as cognitive psychology.[115.1] Research in this area aims to elucidate how human listeners recognize speech sounds and utilize this information for comprehension.[115.1] Despite its prominence, the motor theory has experienced a mixed reception within the scientific community, leading to ongoing debates about its validity and applicability.[114.1] In addition to the motor theory, the Auditory Theory of Speech Perception has emerged as a significant framework for understanding how we perceive speech. This theory posits that speech is primarily processed through our auditory system, suggesting that auditory mechanisms play a crucial role in speech perception.[116.1] Evidence supporting this theory indicates that context effects on perception can be induced not only with speech sounds but also with non-speech sounds, demonstrating the versatility of auditory processing.[116.1] Furthermore, this phenomenon is observed in various species, including birds, which highlights the broader applicability of auditory perception mechanisms.[116.1]Direct Realism and Computational Approaches
Direct realism and computational approaches to speech perception provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of spoken language processing. According to the principles of direct realism, perceivers adjust to talker-specific phonetic details in the visual realization of speech sounds, which facilitates linguistic processing.[118.1] This sensitivity to fine-phonetic detail not only aids in recognizing speech sounds but also plays a crucial role in learning to identify individual talkers.[118.1] Furthermore, research indicates that listeners must balance their reliance on both phonetic and phonological factors when categorizing speech sounds, particularly in the context of second language (L2) speech recognition.[119.1] This balance is essential for effective communication, as it influences how listeners categorize L2 phonemes and navigate the complexities of diverse linguistic environments.[119.1] Computational approaches to speech perception investigate the cognitive mechanisms that underlie how listeners recognize and categorize speech sounds. These approaches emphasize the rich nature of the speech signal, which reflects the complexities of speech articulation. During spoken-word recognition, listeners must process time-dependent perceptual cues, and the significance of these cues can vary based on the phonological status of the sounds across different languages.[120.1] For instance, in the context of second language (L2) speech recognition, it is crucial to understand how listeners balance their reliance on phonetic and phonological factors when categorizing L2 phonemes.[119.1] This interplay between phonetic details and phonological structures is essential for differentiating between similar speech sounds in real-time communication. Both direct realism and computational approaches play a crucial role in the field of speech perception, particularly within clinical practice. Speech Science provides an integration of scientific material on the acoustics and physiology of speech production and perception with state-of-the-art instrumental techniques used in clinical practice, facilitating connections between scientific theory and the management of communication disorders.[121.1] This integration is essential for understanding the complexities of speech perception, especially in relation to individuals who are hard of hearing or deaf.[121.1] Furthermore, a theoretical integrative model of listening has been developed, emphasizing the unity of verbal perception and comprehension of speech while considering various motivational processes.[123.1] The relevance of multisensory speech perception is also highlighted, as it informs clinical routines and enhances the effectiveness of interventions for speech perception disorders.[125.1] By applying these theoretical insights, clinicians can better address the challenges associated with various speech perception issues, thereby improving treatment outcomes.[121.1]In this section:
Cognitive Factors In Speech Perception
Role of Attention
Attention is a significant cognitive factor influencing the speech perception abilities of children who are deaf or hard of hearing and utilize cochlear implants. Research indicates that auditory selective attention plays a crucial role in determining linguistic outcomes for these individuals. Specifically, studies have shown that the effects of auditory selective attention on speech perception are evident in both quiet and noisy environments, highlighting the importance of focusing on relevant auditory information for effective communication in challenging listening situations.[157.1] Additionally, factors such as maternal sensitivity and cognitive and linguistic stimulation have been identified as influential in the language development of cochlear implant users, further underscoring the complex interplay between attention and speech perception.[157.1] Moreover, there is a growing body of evidence that correlates cognitive measures, including attention, with speech-perception scores among cochlear implant users. This correlation suggests that cognitive factors, such as attention and memory, significantly impact the speech perception performance of these individuals.[156.1] The theoretical framework of the information-processing approach to cognition further supports this notion, emphasizing the importance of cognitive factors in the overall perception process.[155.1] Cognitive factors, particularly auditory working memory, significantly influence speech understanding in cochlear implant users. Research has demonstrated the contribution of auditory working memory to speech perception, particularly in specific populations such as Mandarin-speaking cochlear implant users.[154.1] This highlights the critical role that cognitive skills, including attention and memory, play in effective communication for individuals with cochlear implants. To improve these cognitive skills during rehabilitation, targeted strategies focusing on enhancing attention and memory may be beneficial.[154.1] Such interventions could lead to improved speech perception outcomes, thereby better supporting the communication needs of this population.[154.1]Influence of Memory and Context
Memory and contextual cues play significant roles in speech perception, particularly in challenging listening environments. Working memory, which encompasses the ability to hold and manipulate information over short periods, has been identified as a critical cognitive factor influencing speech understanding in noise. Research indicates that working memory capacity, especially as assessed by the reading span test, is the most predictive of speech perception in noisy conditions.[145.1] This capacity tends to decline with age, which can exacerbate difficulties in understanding speech amidst background noise.[145.1] In addition to working memory, attention is another cognitive skill that significantly impacts speech perception. Effective speech understanding in noisy environments requires listeners to segregate and track a target signal while filtering out irrelevant background noise. This process relies heavily on both attention and working memory.[144.1] Studies have shown that cognitive abilities such as attention and working memory are interconnected, further underscoring their importance in real-time speech processing.[144.1] Contextual cues also enhance speech perception, particularly for older adults experiencing cognitive decline. These cues can be linguistic, such as sentence context, or non-linguistic, like acoustic or visual signals. They assist listeners in predicting sentence outcomes and improving comprehension in noisy settings.[147.1] The ability to utilize contextual information effectively can mitigate some of the challenges posed by age-related cognitive decline, allowing for better speech understanding.[147.1]In this section:
Applications Of Speech Perception Research
Speech Recognition Technologies
Speech recognition technologies have evolved significantly, finding applications across various fields, including virtual assistants, healthcare, and accessibility solutions. One of the most prominent uses of speech recognition is in virtual assistants such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, which leverage this technology to enhance user interaction and accessibility.[178.1] As advancements in technology continue, speech recognition is expected to further revolutionize industries, improving human-computer interaction and making technology more intuitive.[179.1] Research in speech perception has also led to innovative applications in clinical settings. For instance, studies have demonstrated that electrical stimulation of the planum temporale can improve speech perception in noisy environments, indicating potential therapeutic applications for individuals with hearing impairments.[180.1] Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled the synthesis of human-like speech, which is now commonly used in smartphones and self-checkout systems. This synthesized speech opens new avenues for research and clinical applications in fields such as audiology and speech pathology.[181.1] The integration of speech perception research into the design of virtual assistants has significant implications for user experience. Research indicates that users tend to respond more favorably to virtual agents with human-like voices compared to synthetic voices, highlighting the importance of voice quality in user acceptance.[187.1] Furthermore, anthropomorphic factors, such as the human-like qualities of a virtual assistant's voice, can influence users' perception of safety and their willingness to engage with these technologies.[188.1] The emotional tone, age, and gender of the voice can also affect the persuasiveness of voice assistants, particularly in contexts like product recommendations.[189.1] Recent advancements in real-time speech emotion analysis combined with contextual awareness have the potential to enhance user interactions with virtual assistants significantly. By employing hybrid deep learning models, these systems can accurately detect and respond to users' emotional states, leading to more adaptive and personalized interactions.[190.1] Research in speech perception plays a vital role in enhancing the accuracy and responsiveness of speech recognition systems, particularly in challenging environments such as those with background noise or diverse accents. Effective speech recognition in noisy settings necessitates the implementation of advanced noise reduction algorithms specifically designed to enhance speech clarity. These algorithms work by isolating speech from noise, utilizing sophisticated speech processing techniques to improve recognition accuracy.[203.1] Furthermore, speech recognition systems adapt to noisy environments through a combination of signal processing techniques, machine learning optimizations, and context-aware algorithms, all aimed at improving model robustness against acoustic variations and leveraging contextual cues to resolve ambiguities.[204.1] As research in speech perception continues to evolve, it is anticipated that significant breakthroughs will lead to the development of more sophisticated speech recognition systems and improved aids for the hearing impaired, thereby expanding the applications of this research.[202.1] Ultimately, while engineering approaches to automatic speech recognition have been only loosely guided by insights from human speech perception studies, the integration of these insights is expected to yield substantial advancements in the field.[201.1]Language Learning and Rehabilitation
Recent advancements in non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques, such as transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), have been utilized primarily to study language as markers of cognitive performance rather than directly addressing the processes involved in speech perception.[183.1] Most studies employing tACS or tRNS focus on exploring possible mechanisms of modulation and their potential applications for cognitive enhancement.[183.1] Additionally, Liu et al. summarized that second-generation brain stimulation techniques, including noninvasive focused ultrasound, not only alter neuronal activity and influence behavior but also elicit responses at the molecular level, thereby contributing to our understanding of neuromodulation in humans.[184.1] In clinical settings, brain stimulation has been employed for functional mapping and to enhance synaptic efficiency in specific brain regions associated with speech processing, including the left ventral premotor cortex and the left superior temporal cortex. This targeted approach allows researchers to assess the effects of stimulation on speech perception in noisy environments, thereby providing insights into the neural pathways involved.[186.1] Children with speech sound disorders encounter significant challenges in accurately producing speech sounds compared to their same-age peers. These difficulties also extend to speech perception, where they often exhibit weaker phonological awareness skills, placing them at risk for negative long-term academic and socio-emotional outcomes.[178.1] Multisensory integration (MSI), also referred to as multimodal integration, is defined as the brain's ability to assimilate cues from multiple sensory modalities. This ability enables individuals to benefit from information from each sense, thereby reducing perceptual ambiguity and enhancing their overall perception of the world.[179.1] Effective interventions for children with speech sound disorders should be informed by research on speech perception, as these interventions can significantly improve their speech production and perception skills.[178.1] Interventions based on speech perception research have demonstrated significant effectiveness. For instance, studies have shown that both tabletop and tablet-based methods of delivering phonological interventions can lead to substantial improvements in children's speech accuracy, as measured by the percentage of correct phonemes.[195.1] These findings underscore the importance of integrating evidence-based practices into therapeutic approaches to enhance speech perception and production outcomes for affected individuals. Theoretical frameworks, such as the Motor Theory of Speech Perception, provide valuable insights into the relationship between speech production and perception. This theory posits that the motor system actively participates in the perception of speech, suggesting that understanding vocal tract gestures is essential for effective speech therapy and language education.[200.1] By leveraging these theoretical insights, practitioners can develop more targeted and effective interventions that address the specific needs of individuals with speech perception challenges.In this section:
Challenges And Future Directions
Addressing Individual Variability
Individual variability in speech perception is increasingly recognized as being influenced by cognitive abilities, particularly components of attention and working memory. A growing body of research has suggested that these cognitive factors may play a significant role in individual differences in speech processing, especially in challenging listening environments.[246.1] Furthermore, it is presumed that individual differences in speech perception are linked with variability in neural processes within the auditory cortex. Despite the established influence of cognitive and non-audiometric psychoacoustic abilities on speech perception, the specific ways in which these individual differences impact the neural encoding of speech remain an area of ongoing investigation.[247.1] The relevance of cognitive abilities to individual differences in speech processing is particularly evident in populations with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and developmental dyslexia. Studies indicate that cognitive deficits in these groups can significantly impact speech perception outcomes.[248.1] Furthermore, it is proposed that domain-general attentional switching plays a crucial role in the quality of perceptual representations of acoustic cues, which contributes to individual differences in both perception and production of speech.[250.1] These findings underscore the importance of accounting for underlying cognitive factors when developing targeted interventions for individuals with hearing difficulties, as enhancing cognitive skills may facilitate better speech processing in challenging listening environments.[249.1] Furthermore, it is essential to explore how auditory processing and cognitive factors interact to influence speech-in-noise performance, especially in settings like classrooms where background noise can significantly hinder comprehension.[251.1] Understanding these dynamics can inform strategies to bolster speech perception in noisy environments, ultimately benefiting individuals who struggle with auditory processing.[251.1]Enhancing Speech Perception in Impaired Populations
Recent advancements in brain imaging techniques have significantly improved our understanding of the neural mechanisms involved in speech perception, particularly in noisy environments. Studies provide corroborative evidence for the engagement of both auditory and cognitive brain regions during speech perception in these challenging auditory contexts.[225.1] This research has important implications for understanding how the brain processes speech in noisy environments and may lead to new strategies for improving communication in such situations.[226.1] Researchers are specifically investigating how the brain combines visual and auditory cues to enhance speech comprehension in these environments.[227.1] Furthermore, the degree of neural entrainment to speech envelopes has been shown to correlate with speech perception in noise and the listening effort required, particularly in cochlear implant users.[228.1] However, the performance of individuals using cochlear implants can vary significantly; while some benefit greatly from these devices in both quiet and noisy situations, others experience limited improvements even in quiet environments.[229.1] This variability underscores the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies that consider individual differences in cognitive and sensory processing. Children with hearing loss face significant challenges in speech perception, particularly when using cochlear implants (CIs). Research indicates that listening in noise presents disproportionately greater difficulties for these children compared to their peers with normal hearing.[235.1] Studies have identified cognitive factors, such as language and working memory, as important predictors of speech-in-noise (SiN) perception in this population.[234.1] Furthermore, the level of hearing loss and the age at which cochlear implantation occurs significantly influence the development of audiovisual speech perception, with earlier implantation generally associated with better outcomes.[233.1] These findings underscore the necessity of developing tailored rehabilitation strategies that address both cognitive skills and the timing of cochlear implantation to enhance speech perception in children with hearing loss. In addressing the challenges faced by children with hearing loss, it is essential to recognize the impact of cultural and linguistic factors on speech perception development. Early language exposure and social interaction are vital for fostering language skills, as hearing is a cornerstone of language development.[241.1] Moreover, children diagnosed with specific language disorders are at a heightened risk for academic failure and mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and tailored educational strategies.[242.1] By focusing on these factors, researchers and practitioners can develop more effective approaches to enhance speech perception in impaired populations.References
[3] Lesson 11: Language: Speech Perception | Psych 256: Cognitive ... — Summary. Speech perception is how our brain understands and processes language in everyday situations. It's a complex process that involves focusing on important sounds, even in noisy environments. For example, the cocktail party effect is when you can focus on one conversation while ignoring background noise, but still notice if someone says
[4] The Handbook of Speech Perception | Wiley Online Books — A wide-ranging and authoritative volume exploring contemporary perceptual research on speech, updated with new original essays by leading researchers Speech perception is a dynamic area of study that encompasses a wide variety of disciplines, including cognitive neuroscience, phonetics, linguistics, physiology and biophysics, auditory and speech science, and experimental psychology. The
[5] Speech perception: a complex ability - Speechneurolab — Summary of the main systems involved in speech perception. ... PART C: Networks involved in speech perception. In the past 40 years or so, brain imaging and brain stimulation techniques have contributed to a better understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying speech perception. As mentioned earlier, the interpretation of the
[25] The Power of Accents: How Speech Influences Perception - LinkedIn — Research suggests that accents can significantly influence how we are perceived by others, shaping judgments about our intelligence, trustworthiness, and even social status. The Power of Perception
[26] Media and stereotypes influence how we judge different accents — Researchers have long emphasized how Americans rely on specific vowel sounds to sense whether a person speaks with an accent. Vowels can shift in subtle ways depending on region, social background, or even personal habit. Scholarly work shows that people's speech perception is influenced by context, environment, and individual attitudes.
[27] The impact of speaker accent on discourse processing: A frequency ... — In today's globally mobile society, the study of speech accents is more relevant than ever. Numerous studies have shown that unfamiliar or accented speech can impair comprehension due to the unique challenges it presents to listeners (Floccia et al., 2006, Munro and Derwing, 1995; Schmid & Yeni-Komshian, 1999; Anderson-Hsieh & Koehler, 1988; Major, Quinton, & McCoy, 2002).
[29] Combining degradations: The effect of background noise on ... — In this study, the presence of background noise had a greater impact on intelligibility of the disordered speech as compared to the control speech, suggesting that there may have been a multiplicative effect when source and environmental degradations concurrently occur. ... Whereas studies in speech perception are typically collected using
[44] Speech perception - Wikipedia — Speech perception is the process by which the sounds of language are heard, interpreted, and understood. The study of speech perception is closely linked to the fields of phonology and phonetics in linguistics and cognitive psychology and perception in psychology.
[45] PDF — 16.1 INTRODUCTION For much of the past 50 years, the main theoretical debate in the scientific study of speech perception has focused on whether the processing of speech sounds relies on neural mechanisms that are specific to speech and language or whether general perceptual/cognitive processes can account for all of the relevant phe-nomena. Starting with the first presentations of the Motor
[46] Motor Theory of Speech Perception | Oxford Research Encyclopedia of ... — The Motor Theory of Speech Perception is a proposed explanation of the fundamental relationship between the way speech is produced and the way it is perceived. Associated primarily with the work of Liberman and colleagues, it posited the active participation of the motor system in the perception of speech. Early versions of the theory contained elements that later proved untenable, such as the
[47] Sketching the Landscape of Speech Perception Research (2000-2020): A ... — Analysis of highly cited articles and researchers indicated three foundational theoretical approaches to speech perception, that is the motor theory, the direct realism and the computational approach as well as four non-native speech perception models, that is the Speech Learning Model, the Perceptual Assimilation Model, the Native Language Magnet model, and the Second Language Linguistic Perception model. Last but not least, foundational and time-honoured theories of speech perception were revealed via citation analysis of publications and authors, whereas co-citation networks, bibliographic coupling networks, term frequency and co-word analysis based on keywords and abstracts were used to uncover more recent research themes/cohorts and future directions (section “Impactful Research Work and Key Research Themes”). A close look at the articles in Table 5 and some articles of researchers identified in Table 6, for example Werker J.F., Hickok G., Liberman A.M., reveals several important theoretical approaches to speech perception.
[49] A systematic review of neuroimaging approaches to mapping language in ... — Subsequent advances in functional neuroimaging methods have, helpfully, broadened our view of the brain regions involved in language processing by allowing language function to be investigated in healthy brains in the absence of impairment. ... As a result of more than three decades of functional neuroimaging research on speech and language, as
[58] Introduction to special issue on acoustic cue-based perception and ... — In turn, acoustic properties manifested in the speech signal are in direct relation to articulatory configurations and features. Understanding how these mechanisms are connected is at the core of Stevens's model of lexical access since this understanding ultimately provides the critical information that encodes words in the speech signal.
[59] Motor theory of speech perception explained - Everything Explained Today — Motor theory of speech perception explained. The motor theory of speech perception is the hypothesis that people perceive spoken words by identifying the vocal tract gestures with which they are pronounced rather than by identifying the sound patterns that speech generates. It originally claimed that speech perception is done through a specialized module that is innate and human-specific.
[60] Motor Theory of Speech Perception (A. Liberman 1985) - fju.edu.tw — One theory of how speech is perceived is the Motor Theory of speech perception (Liberman、Cooper、Shankweiler、& Studdert-Kennedy、1967). The motor theory postulates that speech is perceived by reference to how it is produced; that is、when perceiving speech、listeners access their own knowledge of how phonemes are articulated.
[77] Improved tactile speech perception using audio-to-tactile sensory ... — Recent advances in wide-band haptic actuator technology have made new audio-to-tactile conversion strategies viable for wearable devices. ... could substantially improve speech perception for
[78] Improved tactile speech perception and noise robustness using ... - Nature — Recent advances in haptic technology could allow haptic hearing aids, which convert audio to tactile stimulation, to become viable for supporting people with hearing loss. A tactile vocoder
[82] How the brain deciphers the melody of speech - Northwestern Now — A first-of-its-kind study from Northwestern University’s School of Communication, the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveals a region of the brain, long known for early auditory processing, plays a far greater role in interpreting speech than previously understood. The multidisciplinary study being published Monday, March 3 in the journal “Nature Communications” found a brain region known as Heschl’s gyrus doesn’t just process sounds — it transforms subtle changes in pitch, known as prosody, into meaningful linguistic information that guides how humans understand emphasis, intent and focus in conversation. “We’ve spent a few decades researching the nuances of how speech is abstracted in the brain, but this is the first study to investigate how subtle variations in pitch that also communicate meaning is processed in the brain.”
[83] Speech Technology Progress Based on New Machine Learning Paradigm — The machine learning paradigm has had a great impact on automatic speech recognition (ASR) and text-to-speech synthesis (TTS) as basic speech technologies. It is expected that ASR systems based on deep learning and adaptive algorithms in the near future will be able to recognize spontaneous speech in complex acoustic environments, with the
[84] Machine learning-assisted wearable sensing systems for speech ... - Nature — Recently, visual speech recognition based on facial and lip movements has emerged as a method for enhancing speech perception in noisy environments 14,15,16. While this approach improves speech
[85] Haptic sound-localisation for use in cochlear implant and hearing-aid ... — Our approach could therefore be highly effective for improving spatial hearing for a range of hearing-impaired listeners. Furthermore, the approach is designed to be suitable for use in a real-world application: haptic stimulation was delivered to the wrists, where devices are already routinely worn, and our new signal-processing strategy could
[86] Using haptic stimulation to enhance auditory perception in hearing ... — 2.1. Enhancement of speech-in-noise performance. Work using haptic stimulation to aid those with hearing impairment dates back to at least the 1920s, when a desktop haptic device that stimulated the fingers was trialed to support deaf children in the classroom [Citation 26-29].For deaf individuals who were simultaneously lip reading, this device was reported to increase the number of words
[99] Brain aging and speech perception: Effects of ... - ScienceDirect — Brain aging and speech perception: Effects of background noise and talker variability - ScienceDirect Brain aging and speech perception: Effects of background noise and talker variability To address this issue, we conducted two experiments in which we investigated age differences in speech perception when background noise and talker variability are manipulated, two factors known to be detrimental to speech perception. Our results show that, even after accounting for hearing thresholds and two measures of auditory attention, speech perception significantly declined with age. Age-related decline in speech perception in noise was associated with thinner cortex in auditory and speech processing regions (including the superior temporal cortex, ventral premotor cortex and inferior frontal gyrus) as well as in regions involved in executive control (including the dorsal anterior insula, the anterior cingulate cortex and medial frontal cortex).
[101] Auditory-visual speech perception examined by fMRI and PET — The visual cues from a speaker's mouth movements play an important role in speech perception. They facilitate speech perception when auditory speech is degraded (e.g. Sumby and Pollack, 1954, Rosen et al., 1981).Furthermore, the visual cues alter what the perceiver hears when incongruent visual and auditory cues are presented, as demonstrated in the McGurk effect (McGurk and MacDonald, 1976).
[102] Neural correlates of multisensory enhancement in audiovisual narrative ... — Neural correlates of multisensory enhancement in audiovisual narrative speech perception: A fMRI investigation. ... We expected this enhancement to emerge in regions known to underlie the integration of auditory and visual information such as the posterior superior temporal gyrus as well as parts of the broader language network, including the
[103] Unveiling the nature of interaction between semantics and phonology in ... — Finally, the interactive model 2 theorizes that lexical access involves an interactive spread of information across a phonological layer and a semantic layer that can influence each other.
[106] Cross-language interactions of phonetic and phonological processes ... — Such results caution against making broad-stroke generalizations about cross-language interactions in bilingual speech, and the extent to which phonetic and phonological processes are susceptible to cross-language influence.
[114] The motor theory of speech perception reviewed - PMC - PubMed Central (PMC) — The motor theory of speech perception (see, e.g., Liberman, Cooper, Shankweiler, & Studdert-Kennedy, 1967; Liberman & Mattingly, 1985) is among the most cited theories in cognitive psychology.1 However, the theory has had a mixed scientific reception. The three main claims of the theory are the following: (1) Speech processing is special (Liberman & Mattingly, 1989; Mattingly & Liberman, 1988); (2) perceiving speech is perceiving vocal tract gestures2 (e.g., Liberman & Mattingly, 1985); (3) speech perception involves access to the speech motor system (e.g., Liberman et al., 1967).
[115] Speech perception - Wikipedia — Speech perception is the process by which the sounds of language are heard, interpreted, and understood. The study of speech perception is closely linked to the fields of phonology and phonetics in linguistics and cognitive psychology and perception in psychology.Research in speech perception seeks to understand how human listeners recognize speech sounds and use this information to understand
[116] PDF — The Auditory Theory of Speech Perception • Crazy idea: we perceive speech with our auditory system. The Auditory Theory of Speech Perception • Evidence: Context effects on perception can be induced with non-speech sounds and it works in birds too! • Recall al vs. ar context effect: /al/ — tongue forward, similar to /d/ gesture
[118] Learning to recognize unfamiliar faces from fine-phonetic detail in ... — Perceivers thus adjust to the talker-specific phonetic detail in the visual realization of speech sounds, thereby facilitating linguistic processing. Given this sensitivity to fine-phonetic detail in working out talker idiosyncrasies in speech perception, we predict that perceivers also use this information to learn to identify the talker.
[119] Echoes of L1 Syllable Structure in L2 Phoneme Recognition — In the present study, in addition to investigating how phonetic information and phonological information would influence L2 speech recognition, we would like to address the question of how listeners balance their reliance on phonetic and phonological factors when categorizing L2 phonemes.
[120] Gradient and categorical patterns of spoken-word recognition and ... — The speech signal is inherently rich, and this reflects complexities of speech articulation. During spoken-word recognition, listeners must process time-dependent perceptual cues, and the role that these cues play varies depending on the phonological status of the sounds across languages. For example, Canadian French has both phonologically nasal vowels (i.e., contrastive) and coarticulatorily
[121] Speech Science: An Integrated Approach to Theory and Clinical Practice ... — Speech Science provides an integration of scientific material on the acoustics and physiology of speech production and perception with state-of-the art instrumental techniques used in clinical practice. This book enables the user to easily make the connections between scientific theory and clinical management of communication disorders. This explicit linkage means that students find the
[123] Speech Science: An Integrated Approach to Theory and Clinical Practice — In this context, a theoretical integrative model of listening in the unity of verbal perception and comprehension of speech has been developed taking into account the motivational processes of
[125] PDF — 1 Theoretical background 7 1.1 Introduction 7 1.1.1 Modulation of sensory perception in the human brain 7 1.1.2 Multisensory processing and integration 10 1.1.3 Particularities of speech perception in the framework of multisensory processing 14 1.1.4 Relevance of multisensory speech perception for the clinical routine 17
[144] Speech perception in noise, working memory, and attention in children ... — In sum, working memory and attention - as well as connections between the two - have long and reasonably been argued to play rather central roles in the process of speech understanding in noise (Caplan & Waters, 1999; Klemen et al., 2009), alongside audiological factors such as noise and hearing, and linguistic knowledge (Nittrouer
[145] The role of auditory and cognitive factors in understanding speech in ... — In a review of 20 studies looking at the role of cognition in speech perception in noise, Akeroyd found that working memory capacity, especially as assessed by the reading span test (Daneman and Carpenter, 1980; Rönnberg et al., 1989), was most predictive of speech perception in noise. Given that working memory capacity decreases with age (e.g
[147] Hearing and cognitive decline in aging differentially impact neural ... — It is also well established that enhanced contextual cues facilitate speech perception in older adults . Contextual cues can be linguistic (e.g., sentence context) or non-linguistic (e.g., acoustic or visual cues) and help older adults with cognitive decline to better understand speech in noisy environments and to predict sentence outcomes .
[154] Speech Recognition in Adults With Cochlear Implants: The Effects of ... — Contribution of auditory working memory to speech understanding in Mandarin-speaking cochlear implant users. PLoS ONE, 9, e99096. [PMC free article] [Google Scholar] Van Rooij J. C. G. M., & Plomp R. (1990). Auditive and cognitive factors in speech perception by elderly listeners. II. Multivariate analyses.
[155] Cognitive factors and cochlear implants: some thoughts on perception ... — Over the past few years, there has been increased interest in studying some of the cognitive factors that affect speech perception performance of cochlear implant patients. In this paper, I provide a brief theoretical overview of the fundamental assumptions of the information-processing approach to cognition and discuss the role of perception
[156] Cognitive factors contribute to speech perception in cochlear-implant ... — Correlations between speech-perception scores and the cognitive measures for both the CI users and the age-matched NH listeners support suggestions that cognitive factors can affect speech perception (Conway et al., 2014; Heydebrand et al., 2007; Moberly et al., 2017). Interestingly, the proportion of variance accounted for was quite similar to
[157] The influence of auditory selective attention on linguistic outcomes in ... — The influence of auditory selective attention on linguistic outcomes in deaf and hard of hearing children with cochlear implants ... the speech perception in quiet/noise and CAP scores were included in the model. ... Effects of maternal sensitivity and cognitive and linguistic stimulation on cochlear implant users' language development over
[178] Basics and applications of speech recognition and solutions to problems ... — Applications of Speech Recognition. Speech recognition technology is ever-evolving and finds applications in a myriad of fields. Here are some prominent areas where it is making a significant impact: 1. Virtual Assistants. One of the most common uses of speech recognition is in virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
[179] Evolution And Impact Of Speech Recognition Technology - ALL FOR THE A.I. — Speech recognition's diverse applications offer innovative solutions across many fields. As technology advances, it will further revolutionize industries and improve human-computer interaction, making technology more accessible and intuitive. 5. Challenges in Speech Recognition
[180] Evoking artificial speech perception through invasive brain stimulation ... — Recently, studies have shown that electrical stimulation of the planum temporale improves speech perception in noise, which shows applications of brain stimulation in restoring hearing. However, despite the vast research in the stimulation of auditory regions, the possibility of creating speech-like perceptions is still yet to be determined.
[181] The perception of artificial-intelligence (AI) based synthesized speech ... — Artificial intelligence (AI) based synthesized speech has become almost human-like, ubiquitous in everyday live (e.g., smart phones, grocery self-checkouts), and relatively easy to synthesize. This opens opportunities to use AI speech in research and clinical areas, such as hearing sciences, audiology, and speech pathology, where recordings of speech materials by voice actors can be time- and
[183] Bibliometric mapping of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (NIBS ... — More recent NIBS techniques such as tRNS and tACS have been used for studying language but largely as markers of cognitive performance than as a process itself or mostly speech perception. Outside of our Scopus string focus, most of the studies using tACS or tRNS explore possible mechanisms of modulation and potential uses for cognition and
[184] Editorial: Brain stimulation: From basic research to clinical use — Finally, Liu et al. summarized recent advances in adjusting second-generation brain stimulation techniques that aim at neuromodulation in humans. Noninvasive focused ultrasound did not only alter neuronal activity and influenced behavior but was also shown to cause responses at the molecular level.
[186] Effect of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation on Speech Perception in Noise ... — One of these sessions was a placebo (i.e., without real stimulation), which allowed us to assess baseline performance in speech perception in noise. The other three sessions aimed to enhance synaptic efficiency in three brain regions involved in speech processing: the left ventral premotor cortex, the left superior temporal cortex and the left
[187] Let voice assistants sound like a machine: Voice and task type effects ... — In studies that investigated the impact of humanlikeness of the voice of virtual agents on people's perception and social judgment consistently reported that users responded less favorably to a virtual agent with a synthetic voice than an agent with a human voice (Chérif & Lemoine, 2019; Craig et al., 2019; Stern et al., 2006).
[188] The effect of anthropomorphism of virtual voice assistants on perceived ... — The study delves into two primary dimensions. First, it investigates how anthropomorphic factors, which arise from the human-like qualities of the assistant's voice, impact the perception of safety when using VAs. Second, it aims to quantify the influence of perceived safety on the acceptance of these devices as a viable tool for voice shopping.
[189] The Impact of Perceived Tone, Age, and Gender on Voice Assistant ... — The Impact of Perceived Tone, Age, and Gender on Voice Assistant Persuasiveness in the Context of Product Recommendations ... Reducing cognitive load and improving warfighter problem solving with intelligent virtual assistants. Frontiers in psychology 11 (2020), 554706. ... Pilar Oplustil Gallegos, and Simon King. 2020. Persuasive synthetic
[190] Adaptive Virtual Assistant Interaction through Real-Time Speech Emotion ... — The integration of real-time speech emotion analysis with contextual awareness in virtual assistants has the potential to significantly enhance user interactions. This study presents a novel approach to adaptive virtual assistant interaction by employing hybrid deep learning models, specifically 1D Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) combined with attention mechanisms, to accurately detect
[195] Efficacy of the Treatment of Developmental Language Disorder: A ... — The results showed that both tabletop and tablet-based methods of delivery of a phonological intervention were effective in improving the speech of children. There was a significant improvement in PCC and in the percentage of phonemes correct from baseline (T1) to intervention (T3) for both groups, which was greater during the intervention
[200] The motor theory of speech perception reviewed - PMC — The motor theory of speech perception (see, e.g., Liberman, Cooper, Shankweiler, & Studdert-Kennedy, 1967; Liberman & Mattingly, 1985) is among the most cited theories in cognitive psychology.1 However, the theory has had a mixed scientific reception. The three main claims of the theory are the following: (1) Speech processing is special (Liberman & Mattingly, 1989; Mattingly & Liberman, 1988); (2) perceiving speech is perceiving vocal tract gestures2 (e.g., Liberman & Mattingly, 1985); (3) speech perception involves access to the speech motor system (e.g., Liberman et al., 1967).
[201] PDF — computer speech recognition systems. This could be considered a key technological application of research on human speech perception and spoken word recognition2 - however, in practice engineering approaches to automatic speech recognition have been (at best) only loosely guided by knowledge gained from studying human speech perception.
[202] Speech perception: Some new directions in research and theory — The paper focuses on several of the new directions speech perception research is taking to solve these problems. Recent developments suggest that major breakthroughs in research and theory will soon be possible. ... such as the development of improved speech recognition systems, more sophisticated aids for the hearing impaired, and a wide range
[203] 3 Key Strategies to Improve Noisy Speech Recognition - Fora Soft — When tackling noisy speech recognition, you'll need to implement advanced noise reduction algorithms that are specifically designed to enhance speech clarity in challenging acoustic environments. These algorithms work to separate speech from noise, utilizing sophisticated speech processing techniques to improve speech recognition accuracy.
[204] How do speech recognition systems adapt to noisy environments? — Speech recognition systems adapt to noisy environments through a combination of signal processing techniques, machine learning optimizations, and context-aware algorithms. These approaches aim to isolate speech from background noise, improve model robustness to acoustic variations, and leverage contextual cues to resolve ambiguities.
[225] Neuroimaging and the Listening Brain - The ASHA Leader — Taken together, these studies provide corroborative evidence for the engagement of both auditory and other cognitive brain regions during speech perception in noisy environments.
[226] Brain Merges Sight and Sound to Understand Speech in Noisy Settings ... — This research has important implications for understanding how the brain processes speech in noisy environments and may lead to new strategies for improving communication in challenging listening situations. By gaining insight into the mechanisms of multisensory integration in speech perception, researchers hope to develop new techniques to help individuals with hearing impairments or
[227] Brain Merges Sight and Sound to Understand Speech in Noisy Settings — Researchers are investigating how the brain combines visual and auditory cues to improve speech comprehension in noisy environments.
[228] Neural indices of listening effort in noisy environments - PMC — Here, we also demonstrate that the degree of neural entrainment to speech envelopes is related to speech perception in noise and to listening effort arising from different areas of the brain. We examined the relationship between alpha oscillations, neural entrainment and listening effort in cochlear implant (CI) users.
[229] Neuroimaging and Cochlear Implants: A Look at How the Brain Hears: The ... — Speech-perception performance in individuals [PDF] using cochlear implants varies greatly. Some individuals receive significant benefit when listening in both quiet and noisy situations, but others receive little benefit when listening in quiet environments.
[233] Effects of congenital hearing loss and cochlear implantation on ... — In summary, the results of the present study reveal that level of hearing loss and age at cochlear implantation do in fact affect the development of audiovisual speech perception. Normal-hearing children, children with more hearing prior to receiving hearing aids, and children who received a cochlear implant later rather than earlier were the
[234] Speech-in-Noise Perception in Children With Cochlear Implants, Hearing ... — Studies which have focused on predictors of SiN perception for children with hearing loss specifically indicate a role for cognitive factors such as language and working memory.Ching et al. (2018)studied 252 5-year-old children with hearing aids (HA) and cochlear implants (CI) who were enrolled in the Longitudinal
[235] Speech perception in noise by children with cochlear implants — Purpose: Common wisdom suggests that listening in noise poses disproportionately greater difficulty for listeners with cochlear implants (CIs) than for peers with normal hearing (NH). The purpose of this study was to examine phonological, language, and cognitive skills that might help explain speech-in-noise abilities for children with CIs.
[241] Factors Affecting the Development of Speech, Language, and Literacy in ... — Factors Affecting the Development of Speech, Language, and Literacy in Children | Aanvii Hearing Hearing Aids Account ~Login / Register~ HEARING AIDS How To Handle Your Hearing Aids Aanvii Hearing Hearing Aids The more words a child hears and the more interactions they have, the better their language skills develop. Hearing is a cornerstone of language development. While some aspects, like genetics and neurobiology, are beyond our control, many factors, such as early language exposure, social interaction, and educational environment, can be nurtured to support a child's development. Tags: Hearing Loss, Hearing Health, Hearing Aids, Audiologists, Hearing Test, Hearing Solutions, Hearing Care, Hearing Devices, Ear Machine, Signia Hearing Aid, Tinnitus, Aanvii Hearing
[242] Factors that Influence Language Development - Encyclopedia on Early ... — Indeed, major epidemiological studies have now demonstrated that children diagnosed with specific language disorders at age four (i.e. delays in language acquisition without sensori-motor impairment, affective disorder or retardation) are at high risk for academic failure and mental-health problems well into young adulthood.20,21 Fortunately, the research evidence also indicates that it is possible to accelerate language learning.22 Even though the child must be the one to create the abstract patterns from the language data, we can facilitate this learning (a) by presenting language examples that are in accord with the child’s perceptual, social and cognitive resources; and (b) by choosing learning goals that are in harmony with the common course of development.
[246] Relationship between individual differences in speech processing and ... — A growing body of research has suggested that cognitive abilities may play a role in individual differences in speech processing. The present study took advantage of a widespread linguistic phenomenon of sound change to systematically assess the relationships between speech processing and various components of attention and working memory in the auditory and visual modalities among typically
[247] PDF — Presumably, individual differences in speech perception should also be linked with variability of neural processes within the auditory cortex. Yet, despite the established influence of cognitive and non-audiometric psychoacoustic abilities on speech perception, how these individual differences impact the neural encoding of speech (and SiN;
[248] PDF — 2008;Jusczyk,2002). The relevance of cognitive abilities to individual differences in speech processing is evidenced by studies in populations with developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (see Haesen, Boets, & Wagemans, 2011, for a review), or developmental dyslexia (e.g., Facoetti etal.,2010; Ruffinoet al.,2010).
[249] Individual Differences in Cognition and Perception Predict Neural ... — Significance statement These findings contribute to our understanding of how cognition affects the neural encoding of auditory selective attention during speech perception. Specifically, our results highlight the complex interplay between cognitive abilities and neural encoding of speech in challenging listening environments with multiple speakers.
[250] PDF — account for the underlying cognitive factors of individual dif-ferences in speech processing. Particularly, it is proposed that domain-general attentional switching affects the quality of perceptual representations of the acoustic cues, giving rise to individual differences in perception and production. Keywords Individualdifferences
[251] Individual differences in speech-in-noise perception parallel neural ... — To improve speech-in-noise perception, such as that required in a classroom, it will be of benefit to determine how auditory processing and cognitive factors bolster speech-in-noise performance, and how speech-in-noise perception in turn affects auditory processing and cognitive performance, as these two processes work in tandem but may vary