CNS Speech Lab Dept. of Cognitive and Neural Systems Boston University Frank Guenther, Ph.D Director

Modeling the Neural Bases of Speech CNS Speech LabBoston University Our mission:We create neural network models that characterize speech processes. Projects: The DIVA Model DIVA, or Directions Into Velocities of Articulators, is a neural network model of speech acquisition and production. Through psychophysical and imaging experiments, we gather information about the nature of speech processing and the mechanisms for speech motor skill acquisition. This information is integrated into the model to create a unified account of a wide range of speech data.

DIVA Demos Babbling The model produces self-generated speech sounds by randomly varying free parameters and receives auditory feedback, thus learning the relationship between motor actions and their acoustic consequences.

DIVA Demos Babbling The model produces self-generated speech sounds by randomly varying free parameters and receives auditory feedback, thus learning the relationship between motor actions and their acoustic consequences.

DIVA Demos Babbling The model produces self-generated speech sounds by randomly varying free parameters and receives auditory feedback, thus learning the relationship between motor actions and their acoustic consequences.

DIVA Demos Reduplicated Babbling When DIVA moves its jaw up and down, its babbling sounds like the beginnings of real speech.

DIVA Demos Reduplicated Babbling When DIVA moves its jaw up and down, its babbling sounds like the beginnings of real speech.

Learning to speak The first attempt is an approximation of the utterance “good doggie.” DIVA Demos After several iterations, DIVA does a good job of repeating the utterance. First, DIVA listens to the utterance “good doggie.”

DIVA Demos Stuttering By introducing disruptions in the feedback control, we can use DIVA to study dysfluencies, or errors in speech control, such as those that occur during stuttering.

MGH Center for Laryngeal Surgery and Voice Rehabilitation Steven M. Zeitels, M.D., FACS Robert E. Hillman, Ph.D, CCC-SLP Director Co-Director/Research Director