Survey of Audiology: Fundamentals for Audiologists and Health Professionals

A Foundational Survey That Connects Science and Clinical Care

Audiology draws on acoustics, anatomy, physiology, and a deep understanding of human communication. In this third edition of Survey of Audiology: Fundamentals for Audiologists and Health Professionals, David A. DeBonis and Constance L. Donohue offer a broad, carefully organized introduction that is equally attuned to the science of hearing and the people who seek help for hearing and balance concerns.

Rather than unfolding as a dry catalog of facts, the book frames audiology as a collaborative and humanistic discipline. That perspective appears early and remains visible through clinical examples, practical appendices, and discussions of patient-centered care.

What the Third Edition Brings into Focus 🦻

The text is structured to build competence in layers. It begins with the physical properties of sound and the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, then progresses to the tests audiologists use every day. From pure tone and speech audiometry to tympanometry and other physiological measures, the material connects test results to what they reveal about auditory function and disorder.

Later chapters extend the core framework to pediatric assessment, special populations, auditory processing disorders, and hearing screening programs across the lifespan. The final chapter moves into intervention, covering hearing aid selection, fitting, and aural rehabilitation, including case-based examples that bring diagnostic and management concepts together.

Clinical Tools and Applied Learning

One of the strengths of this edition is its emphasis on application. The chapters include appendices that translate concepts into usable formats, such as:

• Step-by-step masking guidance for pure tone and speech testing
• Case examples and worked problems for tympanogram interpretation
• Forms and inventories useful for screening and case history
• Communication strategies for individuals with special needs
• Classroom and educational considerations for children with hearing loss

These elements help readers practice the reasoning that underlies audiological decision-making, not just memorize isolated procedures.

Who This Book Serves

Because the survey balances breadth and clinical relevance, it is especially well suited to graduate students in audiology and related health professions. Practicing audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and other clinicians who need a current, well-organized reference will also find it valuable. The writing assumes serious study but does not require prior advanced training, making the content accessible while remaining rigorous.

At its core, this is a textbook that respects the complexity of hearing and balance while keeping the reader oriented toward practical, empathetic care. The third edition maintains that focus with updated content and expanded clinical tools.