Introduction to the physics of sound, anatomy and physiology of
the central auditory system, and the psychological bases of
auditory function.
Athena Title
Hearing Science
Prerequisite
Permission of major and (MATH 1101 or MATH 1101E)
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course the student should be able to define the basic principles of sound.
At the end of this course the student should be able to identify anatomical structures in the human auditory system.
At the end of this course the student should be able to explain basic physiologic principles associated with the human auditory system.
At the end of this course the student should be able to discuss psychoacoustic aspects of auditory function.
Topical Outline
I. Sound waves: Physical Concepts
A. Properties of the transmitting medium
B. Fundamental physical quantities
C. Derived physical quantities
D. Spring-mass systems and vibratory motion
E. Pendular motion
F. Sound wave propogation
G. Types of wave motion
H. Transfer of energy
II. Simple Harmonic Motion
A. Sound waves and their dimensions
B. Damping characteristics
C. Acoustic Impedance
III. Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear
A. Conductive mechanisms and physiology of the middle ear
B. Advanced conductive anatomy and physiology
C. Introduction to sensory mechanisms
D. Introduction to cochlear physiology and hair cell physiology
E. Cochlear and VIIIth nerve potentials
F. The efferent auditory system
G. Introduction to the vestibular system
IV. Sound Measurement
A. Absolute and relative measures of acoustic power
B. Sound intensity
C. Sound pressure
D. Decibels and dB IL vs dB SPL
E. Combining sound intensities and sound pressures
F. Complex waves
G. Spectrum analysis
H. Shaping of spectrum with filtering
I. Resonance and Resonators
J. Sound distortion
K. Sound transmission
