What Is the Reference of Error Estimation in Speech Vocalization?

When we prepare to move our arm to reach for a cup, our brain's motor system generates predictive signals about what we expect to see and feel. If our hand doesn't reach the cup or we don't feel the expected sensation, this mismatch alerts us that the movement wasn't executed correctly, prompting adjustments to achieve the goal. Similarly, in speech production, our auditory system formulates a sensory goal representing the sound we intend to produce. This goal signal is sent to the motor system, which generates the motor command to control our articulators and produce the sound. Our brain monitors the feedback to decide if modulation is needed. The key question is: Which signal serves as the criterion for detecting errors—the sensory goal or the motor command? Recent studies provide evidence supporting the sensory goal, challenging traditional ideas that emphasize the motor command. In this project, we aim to use EEG and StereoEEG to distinguish between these two hypotheses about error estimation in speech-motor control.