Project Mentor

Dr. Insoo Kim
Department of Medicine

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Students will help with developing a self-administered speech test method using the Modified Rhyme Test (MRT). First, the MRT will be done without signal processing as a reference. Then, the MRT will be done with speech sounds applied signal processing to enhance the sound clarity. The aim is to find the trial MRT word sets that closely match the outcomes of the full MRT, which consists of either 25 or 50 trials (for example, choose 5 trials) by human participant studies. Students’ responsibility will include managing MRTs in an audiometric booth and assisting in data collection and analysis.
Project Direction	Our primary objective is to develop self-fitting hearing aids that significantly improve speech intelligibility while adapting to individual user preferences through a self-administered test and fitting method. First, we want to create and validate a self-administered hearing test specifically for people with age-related hearing loss, focusing on the problem of confusing consonant sounds. We will evaluate both the self-administered and traditional tests conducted by an audiologist to validate our new test method. We want to use the results of a self-administered test to improve a speech enhancement algorithm, so users can adjust it to their needs.
Mentorship and Supervision	The PI will have weekly one-on-one meetings with students to share the goal and check the progress. The PI has an open-door policy during work hours. So, students can stop by the PI’s office anytime when they need help/advice from the PI. Students will work with graduate students in the lab, so they will receive the necessary guides for the project.
Student Qualifications	– American English native speakers are preferred but not required. – Familiar with MATLAB. – Backgrounds in statistics and statistical software.
Summer Schedule Options	Mon-Fri from 9 am – 5 pm.
Project Continuation	Fall 2024, Spring 2025
Academic Year Time Commitment	3 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP24-18. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.

This application requires a resume or CV, GPA, and Statement of Qualifications. References should be available upon request.