Validation of the adaptive scan method in the quest for time-efficient methods of testing auditory processes
E S Lelo de Larrea-Mancera1,2, T Stavropoulos3, A A Carrillo4
1Northeastern University, College of Science, Psychology; Center for Cognitive and Brain Health, Boston, MA, USA. e.lelodelarrea@northeastern.edu.
Attention, Perception & Psychophysics
|June 22, 2023
Summary
A new adaptive scan (AS) method for psychophysical testing is validated for assessing central auditory processes. This time-efficient method provides precise listening ability estimates, comparable to conventional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Psychophysics
- Signal Processing
Background:
- Clinical application of psychophysical testing is limited by time.
- Precise estimation of listening abilities is crucial for diagnosis.
- Current methods can be time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- Validate a novel adaptive scan (AS) method for threshold estimation.
- Assess the time-efficiency of AS compared to conventional methods.
- Explore potential for a shortened AS algorithm.
Main Methods:
- AS method adapted on a range of values around threshold.
- Comparison with two adaptive algorithms and method of constant stimuli.
- Tested on gap detection and tone detection in noise tasks.
- Seventy undergraduates without hearing complaints participated.
Main Results:
- AS method yielded similar threshold estimates and precision to other adaptive methods.
- AS is a valid adaptive method for psychophysical testing.
- Analysis suggests a shortened AS algorithm can maintain similar thresholds.
Conclusions:
- The adaptive scan method is a valid and time-efficient alternative for psychophysical testing.
- AS offers greater listener familiarity with stimuli near threshold.
- This method supports broad application in auditory assessments requiring adjustable precision and time-efficiency.
