Most studies in statistical learning use stimuli that are presented in an isochronous way, with the time intervals between events being constant. In rhythm perception, however, a distinction can be made between beat perception and statistical (or sequential) learning [1, 2, 3]. When the same sequence, with the same transitional probabilities is presented isochronously both beat perception and statistical learning can explain the results. However, if the same sequence is jittered, beat perception is disabled and only sequential learning can explain the results [3]. This literature thesis project will review the available empirical data for human and nonhuman animals on statically learning in auditory perception and discuss the impact that isochrony might have on the results. Alternatively, a computational model, simulating, evaluating and discussing the results in the recent literature, leading to a literature thesis or Master thesis.

Requirements:

– BSc in Psychology, Computer Science or related field.
– Familiarity with interpreting EEG, ERPs and EPs
– Interest in music and rhythm cognition

References:
[1] Bouwer et al. (2016)
[2] Honing et al. (2014)
[3] Honing et al. (2018)
[4] Attaheri et al. (2015)

Contact: prof. dr H. Honing
Starting date: Summer of Fall 2020.