The development of the listening in spatialised noise – universal test (LiSN-U) and preliminary evaluation in English-speaking listeners

Abstract

Objective: To create a language independent version of the Listening in Spatialised Noise – Sentences test (LiSN-S) and evaluate it in an English-speaking population.

Design: Test development and normative data collection. LiSN-Universal (LiSN-U) targets consisted of CVCV pseudo-words (e.g. /mupa/). Two looped distracter tracks consisted of CVCVCVCV pseudo-words. The listener’s task was to repeat back the target pseudo-words. Stimuli were presented over headphones using an iPad. Speech reception thresholds were measured adaptively. In the co-located condition all stimuli came from directly in front. In the spatially-separated condition the distracters emanated from +90° and −90° azimuth. Perceived location was manipulated using head-related transfer functions. Spatial advantage was calculated as the difference in dB between the co-located and spatially separated conditions.

Study samples: Stimulus intelligibility data were collected from 20 adults. Normative data were collected from native English speakers (23 adults and 127 children).

Results: Children’s spatially separated, co-located, and spatial advantage results improved significantly with age. Spatial advantage was 4–6 dB larger in the LiSN-U than LiSN-S depending on age group.

Conclusion: Whereas additional research in non-native English populations is required, the LiSN-U appears to be an effective tool for measuring spatial processing ability.

Keywords:

• Auditory processing disorder
• spatial processing disorder
• diagnostic tools
• speech perception

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the NSW Department of Education and the primary schools who took part in this research. The participation of the children and their families are also appreciated. This research is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Health. Harvey Dillon acknowledges the support of Macquarie University, the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, and the Australian Department of Health.

Professional meeting details

Cameron, S., Mealings, K., Chong-White, N., & Dillon, H. (2018, May). Development of the Listening in Spatialised Noise – Universal test (LiSN-U). A language-independent test for spatial processing disorder. Paper presented at the Audiology Australia National Conference 2018, Sydney, Australia.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.