BHSL Basics
The Binaural Hearing and Speech Lab (BHSL) wants to share our research and passion for studying binaural hearing with lab visitors and participants we work with but acknowledge that some of the language in our research might be unfamiliar. The BHSL Basics tab is for anyone interested in learning more about auditory processing and binaural hearing but may not have a formal background in the field. Here, we define and explain key concepts in binaural hearing and provide examples of how we use binaural hearing in everyday life.
Explore More About the Hearing Sciences
How We hear
Whether it is listening to music, hearing traffic, or talking with friends, our ears process acoustic waves which help us navigate our surroundings. Individuals with typical hearing utilize acoustic hearing (hearing with sound waves), but some individuals with hearing loss use hearing aids or cochlear implants to access sounds in the environment.
It is crucial to understand how the auditory system works and develops, as it can help researchers comprehend the brain’s function and how hearing impacts human behavior and cognition. At BHSL, we study how hearing deficits impact hearing and cognitive development, and we research how cochlear implants affect binaural hearing.
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What is Binaural Hearing
Binaural hearing is the ability to process sound in 3D space. Binaural hearing allows us to find the location and origin of a sound and selectively focus on one person’s speech in a noisy environment. Both abilities are crucial for social connection and communication, learning, and functional living. Therefore, it is imperative that researchers’ study spatial hearing in those with hearing deficits.