Speech and Voice Science

After providing an introduction to the science of speech and voice production and creating a foundation of knowledge in basic concepts of acoustics and physics, the author gives extensive attention to the examination of imaging, kinematic, and acoustic instrumentation used in research and clinical settings. The author includes a generous number of spectrograms (vowels, consonants, and coarticulatory effects). Two key chapters on phonation present the most in-depth exploration of voice and laryngeal dynamics available in any existing text. The author fully integrates concepts of speech motor control and speech perception into relevant chapters on vowels and consonants. Historical and current theories of speech production and perception, and many of the issues central to research in these areas, are addressed thoroughly. Discussions of clinical and research instrumentation are integrated into each chapter, helping the reader understand how information presented in each chapter is obtained, and how the abilities and limitations of instrumentation shape our knowledge of speech and voice science.

Instructors and students benefit greatly from the substantial number of critical review questions following each chapter, and the accompanying PowerPoint slides facilitate teaching and learning.

The second edition has been revised and updated to be a better resource for students and instructors alike. In addition to a comprehensive updating of research and references, the second edition contains changes to help engage students in the learning process. The most significant enhancements include:
*A reorganization of the introductory chapters
*The inclusion of ample student study material
*Classroom group activities

Each chapter now contains section study questions in addition to the end-of-chapter review questions, which have themselves been expanded. The section study questions are designed to help focus students on the key concepts and to assess their learning.

The second edition also includes website recommendations and Instructor-Facilitated Classroom Learning Activities at the end of each chapter. New material has been added as well, including a chapter on Advice for Students on Effective Study Techniques.

Bringing together all of the knowledge crucial to the study of speech and voice science in one concise and readable textbook, this book is essential for courses in speech and voice science and acoustics and will effectively supplement courses in voice disorders. The depth of knowledge presented here is also highly appropriate for doctoral students and professionals in the field.