Speech Technology Pre-Master's Program
Program Overview
The Speech Technology Pre-Master’s is designed to help students from applied sciences backgrounds or those transitioning from other fields build foundations for success in the MSc Speech Technology program. This preparatory course uses a structured, project-based approach to develop skills in programming, research methods, and speech analysis.
Program Features
- Self-paced learning that fits student schedules while maintaining academic rigor
- Practical focus through a gender classification project that integrates all core skills
- Balance of technical competencies and ethical considerations
- Clear progression from fundamentals to advanced concepts
Curriculum Structure
The program consists of six main topics that build toward a final project:
1. Introduction to Speech Technology
Overview of the field, key concepts, and foundational knowledge in voice technology applications
2. Programming Fundamentals
Essential Python programming skills focused on speech technology applications
3. Research Methods 101
Introduction to scientific methodology, literature review, and academic writing
4. Speech Analysis
Fundamentals of acoustic analysis, feature extraction, and speech data processing
5. Ethics and Data Management
Ethical considerations in speech technology, data collection protocols, and privacy issues
6. Academic Writing
Developing skills in scientific communication and documentation
Final Project: Gender Classification System
Students apply their learning to develop a gender classification system using voice pitch analysis. This project serves as an integrative exercise that:
- Demonstrates programming competencies
- Applies speech analysis techniques
- Requires proper data management
- Necessitates critical thinking about ethical implications
- Develops academic research and documentation skills
The focus is not solely on creating a working system, but on developing an academic research mindset and understanding the complexities of speech technology.
Teaching Philosophy
This pre-master’s program embodies my belief that effective preparation for graduate studies requires more than just acquiring technical skills. The program is designed to foster:
- Critical thinking about the social implications of technology
- Sound research methodology and scientific rigor
- Practical application of theoretical concepts
- Ethical awareness in technology development
- Collaborative learning and peer engagement
By providing this structured pathway into speech technology, the program helps diverse students build confidence and capabilities for success in the MSc Speech Technology program.