Listening Comprehension as a Function of Word Rate

Twelve comparable groups of Ss heard a listening selection that differed, from group to group, with respect to word rate. Word rate was varied, in increments of 25 wpm (words per minute), from 125 to 400 wpm, by means of the sampling method for compressing or expanding recorded speech. After listening to the selection, Ss were tested for comprehension by a multiple choice test. Comprehension was not seriously affected by increasing word rate from 125 to 250 wpm, but it declined rapidly thereafter. The suggested explanation of these results is that time is required for the perception of words, and that as word rate is increased beyond a certain point, the perception time available to the listener becomes inadequate, and a rapid deterioration of listening comprehension commences.