The integration mechanisms of feedforward and feedback control in speech motor system

: The final stage in the process of spoken production is articulation, which involves the integration of feedforward and feedback control in speech motor system. Specifically, feedforward control (top-down mechanism) refers to speakers’ ability to retrieve and execute the motor commands responsible for producing target speech sounds, while feedback control (bottom-up mechanism) refers to speakers’ ability to adjust speech movements based on the sensory feedback generated by articulation. Sensory goals and sensory predictions are important hubs linking feedforward and feedback control systems. Based on the neural computational model DIVA (directions into velocities of articulators), the cognitive and neural mechanisms of the integration between feedforward and feedback control are illustrated in the stage of speech acquisition and speech production. On the basis of previous studies, how speakers utilize auditory feedback to control online speech and update feedforward motor representations, and the cognitive significance of the P1-N1-P2 components in the ERP studies are especially discussed. Furthermore, various factors that influence feedforward and feedback control are summarized, including individual variabilities, training experience and task demands. Additionally, some suggestions are proposed for future investigation.