Department of Communication Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences
1. Applications are invited for a Master’s Student to work in collaboration with the Department of Communication Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences on the project SALTT-CITY. The student will join the supervisory team, which will be composed of Dr Daniela Gatt (main supervisor) and Prof. Helen Grech (co-supervisor). The role of the M.Sc. by Research student will be primarily to assess the usability of the improved design of an innovative speech and language therapy toy (SALTT) from a therapeutic point of view.
The SALTT-CITY project aims to develop an unprecedented platform which supports connected Speech and Language Therapeutic Toys (SALTTs) in a smart city environment, enabling the elicitation of user-experiences of the aforementioned stakeholders and integrating them in computer-based design support tools.
This project builds upon the SPEECHIE project which took place over a period of three years during which an innovative product service system (PSS) was developed. The product in this PSS enhances the engagement of children with ‘Developmental Language Disorder’ during speech and language intervention, whereas the service aspect assists speech and language pathologists (SLPs) in monitoring children’s progress during therapy in clinical and home settings. Based on evaluations carried out with Olly Speaks (the product developed in SPEECHIE), the SALTT-CITY project aims to improve this device.
2. Applicants must be in possession of a B.Sc. (Honours) degree in Communication Therapy (Second Class Upper Division or higher). Students who are currently in their final year of the undergraduate Communication Therapy programme will also be considered, subject to successful completion of their programme of studies in line with the requirements outlined here.
3. The scholarship has a duration of one year. The selected candidate will be required to start their studies in Oct’23 and will be receiving a scholarship of €500 per month for one year from Jan’24. The tuition fee for the first year of studies (up to €400) will be covered from the SALTT-CITY project. Further information on applicable fees are available online.
4. The Scholarship will be subject to the eligibility of the candidates to meet the entry requirements set out by the University of Malta and the conditions for enrolling in the Master’s by research programme online.
International applicants are required to present an internationally recognised English Language proficiency Certificate at the required level. Further details are available . International applicants are also advised to familiarise themselves with information available on the , particularly to the sections concerning visas and e-residence permit conditions and requirements. International candidates will need to provide assurance that they have the funds available to cover their stay in Malta. The stipend awarded for this scholarship is to be considered as a form of allowance and will not cover all the costs attached to studying and living in Malta.
5. Candidates should submit their letter of application, a copy of their curriculum vitae, copies of their certificates and contact details (including e-mail address) of 2 referees. Applications may be sent by e-mail to Dr Karen Cacciattolo. Applications should be received by not later than 16 April 2023 at 12:00. International candidates are required to present certified translations of their qualifications into English. Late applications will not be considered.
Note: The scholarship awardee will be required to complete a Master’s by Research application, which is considered separately.
6. Further information may be obtained by contacting Dr Daniela Gatt by email.
