CNS Speech LabDept. of Cognitive and Neural Systems

Boston University

Frank Guenther, Ph.DDirector

Modeling the Neural Bases of SpeechCNS Speech Lab Boston University

Our mission: We create neural network models that characterize speech processes.

Projects: The DIVA ModelDIVA, 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 DemosBabbling

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 DemosBabbling

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 DemosBabbling

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 DemosReduplicated Babbling

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

DIVA DemosReduplicated 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 DemosStuttering

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 forLaryngeal Surgery and

Voice Rehabilitation

Steven M. Zeitels, M.D., FACS

Robert E. Hillman, Ph.D, CCC-SLP

Director

Co-Director/Research Director