A new artificial signal-space proxy for investigating the emergence of structure and categories in speech

In order to experimentally investigate emergence of structure in speech, one needs a non-discretised signal space that is removed from participants' existing linguistic experience to prevent interference. We present a novel approach that makes use of an infrared sensor device. Participants generate signals using their hands in relation to the device, which generates audio feedback. The signalling space can be manipulated to have different sizes and to make use of different dimensions (e.g. distance to the device, or position with respect to it), and the nature of the audio feedback can also be manipulated. This paper will give a brief review of previous methods used as proxies for signalling spaces and outline why further innovation is required. We will also describe the new approach, drawing on examples, and outline future applications and possibilities within the field of phonetics and phonology, specifically in relation to the emergence of structure.