A modest phonetics laboratory which enhance the training of competent
linguists who can record, analyze and document the complex sound patterns of
Ethiopian languages has been established. The lab has two components: acoustic
and aerodynamics.A portable version of a computerized speech lab(CSL), model
4400, has been acquired for acoustics analysis. Software both for teaching
courses and conducting research has also been installed and is ready for use.
The necessary equipment for aerodynamic analysis,i.e. for measuring airflow
and intra oral pressure during speech has also been installed and the laboratory
is operational. These two components will ensure that the laboratory provides
the necessary resources to develop the professional capabilities of students
and staff in speech analysis and in teaching phonetics and phonology.
 

The Phonetics Lab, which is located at Akaki Campus, the New AAU's Postgraduate and Research Campus

Description of the Phonetics Laboratory

Data Acquisition System

• Kay Elemetrics CSL 4400 system for data acquisition.
• 4-channels, 24-bit resolution, 44100Hz sample rate.

Electroglottograph

* Glottal Enterprises 2-channel electroglottograph.

*Used to measure vocal fold vibration during speech.

*Useful for determining F0, voicing and tone contrasts. 

Rothenberg Mask

* Rothenberg mask and two pressure transducers.

* Used to measure oral and nasal air n speech.

* Useful for studying aerodynamics and nasalization.

Pressure Transducer

 Nasal catheter and wideband pressure transducer.

* Used to measure intra-oral air pressure in speech.

* Useful for studying consonantal aerodynamics.

Computing Facilities

• Dell Optiplex computer workstations.
• Laser printer, colour inkjet printer, photocopier/fax.
• All computers linked through virtual networking.

Current Research Projects

 A post-doc in a recording session

     Ongoing Research Projects

• Timing of laryngeal gestures in Amharic and Oromo.
• Aerodynamics of Ejective consonants in Amharic.
• Audiovisual speech perception in Amharic/English.
• Multimedia Documentation of Koegu