Basic Fundamentals in Hearing Science

Basic Fundamentals in Hearing Science is a practical textbook written primarily for college undergraduates preparing for graduate programs in speech-language pathology or audiology. Using Newtonian physics, the authors present a novel approach to the subject of hearing science enabling students to develop their understanding of the subject while building their knowledge of scientific concepts as they move through the text. Students progress from the basics to more difficult concepts in a graduated process. The text encourages thinking and problem solving rather than learning by rote memorization and clarifies obscure concepts in a writing style that promotes greater understanding and comprehension. Pedagogical elements include key terms listed for each chapter, bulleted chapter summaries, and review questions at the end of each chapter. For undergraduate hearing science students without hard science backgrounds, this text aims to decompress and facilitate the comprehension of difficult and often cumbersome concepts in order to master the basic concepts in hearing science.This textbook is also a useful supplemental or recommended reference for speech and hearing combined courses that require more coverage of hearing science than currently available in speech-oriented textbooks. 'Key features of Basic Fundamentals in Hearing Science include: ' * An extensive number of figures and illustrations for improved overall comprehension of the subject matter * Clear descriptions of the many and various forms of sound wave phenomenon, and of auditory anatomy and physiology--from the outer ear to the auditory cortex * An overview of scientific measurement scales and notation including the use of logarithms, exponential and scientific notation, and the metric system * An opening chapter that defines and elucidates the meaning, practice, and philosophy of science--with an emphasis on theory-driven research--including a practical guide for the writing of a scientific manuscript * Chapters devoted to the basic terminology used in hearing science and the application of those basic principles and terms, as well as a chapter that addresses basic nervous system terminology and describes the structure and function of the twelve pairs of cranial nerves * A chapter that deals exclusively with the structure and function of the auditory system ================================================================== The text is written with meticulous and thorough attention to detail and accuracy.This is especially apparent with regard to the formulas and tables provided for the computations of the Bel, decibel, and RMS amplitude. An additional feature that adds to the attractiveness and flair of the book is the frequent reference to historic discoveries and to those who made them. Concepts presented in the text are beautifully complemented by illustrations, graphs, and equations. This is a book I wish I had had when I was a student, and I believe it will become a first choice textbook among undergraduate and graduate students. It will provide quick answers to questions, both simple and complex, and will provide ever-deepening insights into hearing science when knowledge of details is the goal. -- From the Foreword by James A. Kaltenbach, PhD, Director of Otology Research, The Cleveland Clinic