Sound localization measured by eye-tracking. (2nd December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Volck, Alexander C.; Laske, Roman D.; Litschel, Ralph; Probst, Rudolf; Tasman, Abel-Jan
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 54:Number 12(2015:Dec.)
• Page Start: 976
• Page End: 983
• Publication Date: 2015-12-02
• Subjects: Spatial hearing -- eye tracker -- sound localization -- unilateral conductive hearing loss; Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2015.1088968
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective : To introduce a new method of measuring sound localization ability based on eye-tracking and to test this method by analysing the influence of mild induced conductive hearing loss on sound localization. Design : Sound signals were presented from different angles, and the participant's responses were measured using an eye-tracking device. For validation, a comparison of responses to visual stimuli was performed. To test the clinical application of this method, a mild conductive hearing loss was simulated, and the impact of this change on sound localization was measured. Study sample : Fifteen participants. Results : The system provided repeatable measurements, and there was a good correlation of sound and visual signals. A large number of trials could be completed fairly rapidly. Following the induced conductive hearing loss, a decline of 5.5° in the accuracy of sound localization in the horizontal plane was found towards the side of the non-impaired ear for frontal presentations. Conclusions : Quantifying sound localization by eye-tracking was found to be feasible, fast and accurate. A mild conductive hearing loss caused a slight degradation of sound localization accuracy within the 30° frontal sector, which is in good agreement with results found using methods requiring more extensive instrumentation.