Computational Modeling
A computational model is a mathematical model functioning in software, commonly of a complex nonlinear system described by a set of equations for which there are no clear analytical solutions and that are solved numerically. A worthwhile model also enhances our ability to predict empirical results.
In the HRC, computational modeling involves the application of theoretical methods to formalize our understanding of structures and elements within the auditory system. The theoretical methods we apply include those from electro-mechanics, circuit theory, thermodynamics, neural networks, signal processing, probability and statistics, information theory, and pattern recognition. Our construction of computational models is often closely combined with psychophysical or physiological investigations. We derive computational models from our physiological measurements of cochlear biomechanics, responses of the cochlear nucleus to complex sounds, and activity in the auditory cortical pathway during vocalization development. In addition, we use our own psychophysical studies and physiological data from outside laboratories to model the activity of auditory brainstem neurons, spatial sound perception, and the effects of hearing impairments and bilateral cochlear implants on binaural hearing abilities.
