Communicative and learning potential of multi-sensory environments used by children with intellectual disabilities

Project Description
The studentship covers a 3 year programme of research, which focuses on the communicative and learning potential of multi-sensory environments used by children with intellectual disabilities. The project aims to investigate the opportunities and interactions associated with use of the multi-sensory environment by young people with severe to profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (S-PIMDs).

Background
Multi-sensory environments have been around since the 1960’s serving a variety of purposes, including leisure, learning and communication. Many special schools and day services have dedicated spaces where multi-sensory equipment is provided. Recent advances in the field of digital technology have expanded the capabilities of such environments, offering opportunities for interactive engagement with learning objects. However, in spite of popular usage, there is a dearth of robust evidence. The extent to which real learning is taking place, and improved social interaction in the environment is supported, is a question that persists.

We will investigate the nature of interactions that take place between individuals with S-PIMDs and their supporters, e.g. educational staff, family member or support worker within and outside MSEs. Mixed methods will be employed using video capture, transcription and applied linguistic analysis in conjunction with semi-structured interviews.

The student will be working within a communication and cognition research theme group, in which the supervisors are located. The student will have access to a well-equipped communication lab housing a range of communication software (linguistic and observational analysis).

The studentship will provide training in key methods and skills required for a student contemplating a research career in the area of communication and cognition. The student will enjoy integral membership of the multi-disciplinary research theme group which includes representation from psycho-linguistics, speech & language therapy and psychology. The student will also be actively involved in dissemination activity such as platform/poster presentations at international scientific conferences and publication

Eligibility
Candidates should have a first or upper second class honours in an area relevant to the proposed research. This includes areas such as Psychology, Linguistics, Education and Speech & Language Therapy.

In all cases a masters degree or equivalent qualification or other evidence of research skills and experience is preferred but not essential. An NHS standard pre-employment check including DBS clearance, Occupational Health clearance and satisfactory references will be required for all work involving patients. HCPC registration is desirable but not essential.

To find out more about undertaking a PhD in the School of Health Sciences at UEA, visit https://www.uea.ac.uk/medicine-health-sciences/graduate-school .