What is the purpose of these tests?

Each test aims to investigate a different aspect of your hearing. After all the data are collected, the most informative tests will be identified and incorporated into a new, innovative device to be used by audiologists and researchers.

Do I qualify for the test?

You qualify for the test if

You are at least 10 years old, and less than 66 years old, and
English is your native language.

How long is the test?

4 hours

What will I be doing for four hours?

You will sit in a comfortable chair and listen to a series of different sounds. Sometimes you will be asked to respond by pressing a button or repeating what you hear by speaking aloud. For the last two hours of the session, you will sit still and simply listen to the sounds. You may watch a DVD on mute, with captions, or quietly read a book during this time.

May I bring a book to read during the testing?

Yes, you may read a book during certain parts of the session. We just ask that you turn the pages quietly, as even the softest noise can interfere with the test results.

Where can I park?

When you arrive at the Frances Searle Building, pull into the front circle drive. Your experimenter will meet you in the lobby of the building, and will hand you a parking pass for the lot immediately outside of the building.

How do I get there by public transportation?

Take the CTA Purple Line and get off at the Noyes Street stop. Walk east on Noyes, crossing Sheridan Road and continuing down a service road north of Noyes. You will see a circular driveway. This is the main entrance to Frances Searle. Your experimenter will meet you in the lobby.

I had a recent test where I raised my hand every time I heard a sound. Is this test the same?

That is indeed a test of hearing. But this project tests hearing in a more detailed and thorough manner.

I know I have hearing loss. May I participate?

Yes, as long as your hearing loss isn't too severe. If you do not know the severity of your hearing loss, you may register for HARP and your hearing will be tested at the beginning of the session. The tests are not designed for subjects with more than a moderate hearing loss, so we cannot complete the test if your hearing loss is severe or profound.

I wear hearing aids. May I participate?

Yes as long as your hearing loss isn't too severe. If you do not know the severity of your hearing loss, you may register for HARP and your hearing will be tested at the beginning of your session. You will be asked to remove your hearing aids for the testing session.

I'd like my whole family to be tested. How many people can be tested at the same time?

There are two HARP testing booths, however the schedule does not always allow two subjects to be tested at the same time. We try to accommodate simultaneous sessions whenever possible. Please consult the schedule of times to see when simultaneous sessions are available.

What dates/times are available for testing?

Testing sessions are available at various times during the day and evening, on both weekdays and weekends. Specific session times change week to week. Please check the schedule for more details.

How long is the testing process going on?

This phase of HARP will end in June 2009, but more subjects will be needed for various related tests over the next few years.

Who do I call if I discover I can't attend my session?

Please call 847-467-0123

How do I cancel/reschedule my session?

If your session is more than two days away you may cancel online. Click on this link and enter your username and password. At the bottom of the next screen, click to cancel or reschedule your appointment. If you would like to reschedule, you may choose a new date and time for your test session.

If your session is less than 2 days away, please call 847-467-0123 to cancel/reschedule