Perceptual learning in frequency discrimination

Abstract

This study was concerned with the effects of training on the frequency discrimination ability of human listeners. Frequency discrimination at 200 Hz was tested before and after training. Four groups of listeners received training in four different frequency regions, 200, 360, 2500, and 6000 Hz. It was found that training at 200, 360, and 2500 Hz all provided comparable improvement in discrimination performance at 200 Hz whereas training at 6000 Hz provided less improvement. This result is consistent with the idea that frequency discrimination and pitch perception are mediated by different processes at high (greater than 5000 Hz) and low (less than 5000 Hz) frequencies.