Neural processing of naturalistic sounds: Ear-electroencephalography validation and conversational interaction

Category

Health and Environmental Sciences

Description of research project

This study aims to investigate how the brain processes sound and speech using new, comfortable ear-sensors compared to traditional EEG caps. EEG (electroencephalography) measures brain activity using non-invasive sensors. We want to verify whether wearable sensors placed around the ears (ear-EEG) can capture brain signals as effectively as standard laboratory equipment. Your participation will help us evaluate these portable brain-recording techniques.

What you will do: Depending on your assigned session, you will either listen to sounds while watching a silent video, or take part in a conversation with an AI (artificial intelligence) conversation partner or another volunteer.

Setup: Wear comfortable ear-sensors and/or a standard EEG cap. This involves gentle skin cleaning to ensure good signal quality.

Time: One session lasting up to 2 hours (includes regular rest breaks) at the Cognitive and Computational Laboratory (Room AB101), AUT North Campus.

You will receive a $30 supermarket voucher to acknowledge your time and help offset travel costs.

Interested? Check your eligibility and sign up here: https://aut.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e4jOk3zx5i2VMJE

Inclusion and/or exclusion criteria

Who can join:
- Aged 18+ with normal hearing in both ears.
- Able to sit comfortably for up to 2 hours and understand study procedures in English (conversation sessions require fluent English).

You may not be eligible if you have:
- Hearing loss, severe tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or uncorrected vision problems.
- A history of significant neurological or psychiatric conditions (e.g. epilepsy, seizures, recent stroke, traumatic brain injury).
- Metallic head implants (e.g. cochlear implants) or active devices like pacemakers (dental fillings are fine).
- Active skin conditions on the scalp or ears, or allergies to medical adhesives/gels.
- A current acute infection (e.g. flu, fever), or take medications that significantly alter brain activity.
- A hairstyle (e.g. thick dreadlocks, cornrows) or cultural/religious practice that stops sensors touching your scalp or ears.

Statement of ethics approval

Approved by the Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee on 2026-09-21 for Three years, expiring 21 September 2029.

AUTEC approval number

26/266

Contact person

Bin Gou, hms3061@autuni.ac.nz

Participant information sheet