Lisa Helson

Background

About Lisa Helson

I am a graduate researcher studying auditory perception, with a focus on perceptual centers and the temporal structure of speech. My work is motivated by the growing use of text to speech technologies in education and accessibility tools, particularly for individuals who rely on auditory supports for learning.My undergraduate research began with a replication study of Lefevre et al. 2014 Calculation Fluency Test (CFT), where I examined the speed and accuracy of processing arithmetic equations on a computer vs paper. Given that the results showed a decline in scores, the error analysis led me to question how auditory learning supports may influence comprehension when information is delivered through synthetic speech. Many assistive technologies rely on artificial voices that lack the natural timing and rhythmic structure of human speech, which may affect attention, prediction, and processing for listeners who already experience learning challenges.My current research explores how perceptual timing in speech influences processing and learning, with the goal of better understanding how auditory technologies can support rather than hinder comprehension. I am particularly interested in research that connects auditory perception, cognition, and accessibility to improve how people interact with language, numbers, and educational information.