An investigation of the contribution made by computer models to our understanding of human auditory processing

The aim of the research described in this thesis is to consider the extent to which computer models can contribute to our understanding of human auditory processing below the level of the cortex. The research is conducted in two stages. First, a review is made of previous, published work in this area carried out by other researchers. Second, two anatomically-and physiologically-based computer models of part of the mammalian cochlear nucleus are designed, implemented and assessed.;The review of auditory periphery models suggested some evidence that the sharp frequency selectivity of the cochlea and the firing characteristics of the auditory nerve fibres are controlled by the stiffness of the structures holding the outer hair cells and the amount of transmitter released from the inner hair cells respectively. In addition, the cochlear nucleus models included in the review pointed out that the firing characteristics of the various cochlear nucleus cells are highly dependent on the anatomy and biochemistry. As a result of the review, it is concluded that auditory modelling can be used in conjunction with anatomical, physiological and psychological studies, to understand the structures and functions of the auditory system.;These findings are supported by the resulting of the modelling study. The modelling study demonstrates that the complex responses arising from the onset-C units located in the posteroventral division of the cochlear nucleus are dependent on both intrinsic ionic properties and extrinsic distribution of input connections. In effect, the computer modelling approach adopted in the study proved to be flexible enough for developing speculative 'what if' models which can be used to conduct experiments that are difficult to achieve through conventional scientific methods.