How does LENA count turns?
After a LENA day, the audio file from the device gets uploaded to LENA, where computer software processes the file and turns it into numerical data.

LENA software divides the audio data into short segments (~1 sec). Based on patterns of frequency and pitch, the software can then code each segment as:
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Child (wearing the device),
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Adult (usually the teacher)
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Other (silence, background noise, etc)
A “turn” is counted when an adult and child respond to each other within about five seconds.
Because LENA can’t understand words, some sounds — especially in noisy rooms — could be misclassified. This is why interpreting reports alongside your real‑life observations is important.
Click the image below to see a slide show with more information about how LENA works.
