Signal theory, 7.5 credits

Specific eligibility according to The Programme syllabus of The Study Programme in Audiology 180 credits

The general aim of the course is to give the student basic knowledge of signals and systems, and an understanding of audiological applications of signal theory. Learning outcomes of the course On completion of the course the student should be able to describe signals' properties i time and frequency and explain the relationship between these descriptions, be able to apply knowledge how the energy distribution for broadband signals is calculated, relate this to the signal process properties of systems, be able to account for the bases in digital signal processing, and be able to describe the properties of linear and non-linear systems, relate these to hearing aids, and the sense of hear as signal process system, apply this knowledge, and be able to analyse recorded healthy by means of the fundamental concepts of signal theory.

The course is divided in two parts, see below. Part 1: Basic signal theory, 3 HE credits. The part gives basic knowledge of the representation of simple and complex signals in a time and frequency plan and about relations between the representations. The terminology from the basic physics tuition is extended. The concept of band is treated, including arithmetical rules for band level summation. The basic characteristics of digital signals are discussed. Part 2: Signals and systems, 4.5 HE credits. This part deals with the affect of systems on signals. Simple ideal systems such as filter are treated as well as real systems, both acoustic and electric. The ear is also brought up as an example of a system. Focus is on linear systems. Undesired non-linearity is treated, such as various types of distortion. The hearing aid as a signal processing system is introduced and, in connection with that, undesired non-linearity is discussed. An orientation is given, how to investigate the characteristics of different systems.

This part gives basic knowledge of the representation of simple and complex signals in the time and frequency domains and about relations between the representations. The terminology from the basic physics education is extended. The concept of band is treated, including arithmetical rules for band level summation. The basic characteristics of digital signals are discussed.

This part deals with the affect of systems on signals. Simple ideal systems such as filters are treated as well as real systems, both acoustic and electric. The ear is also brought up as an example of a system. Focus is on linear systems. Undesired non-linearity is treated, such as various types of distortion. The hearing aid as a signal processing system is introduced and, in connection with that, undesired non-linearity is discussed. An orientation is given, how to investigate the characteristics of different systems.

Lectures, seminars and calculation exercises are interleaved with independent theoretical work and practically oriented laboratory sessions. Scheduled supervision is offered in connection with the laboratory sessions.

A study guide is distributed at the beginning of the course, comprising assessment criteria for examination, specific instructions for certain tasks, a timetable specifying compulsory parts, and a list of responsible teachers. Course evaluation will be carried out in accordance with the guidelines established by the Board of Education. Course evaluation is carried out both through a written evaluation at the end of the course, and through an oral forum at least once in connection with the course, where the students may express their opinions.