Phonetic Transcription and Introduction to Acoustic Phonetics

Program Overview

This online asynchronous course provides comprehensive training in using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and understanding the physics of sound in American English. It covers topics such as anatomy of speech articulators, vowel and consonant phonemes, and phonological processes. The course emphasizes practical application and exposure to diverse speech samples, including dialects and disorders.

Program Outline

• Training in using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) to transcribe sounds of American English, including experience with influences of dialect and speech disorders.
• Introduction to the fundamentals of the physics of sound and acoustic phonetics.
• Online asynchronous format with no required meeting times.
• Course activities organized into modules typically lasting 1 week.
• Flexibility to fit learning activities into your own schedule.

Course Activities & Time Commitment:

| Activity | Hours per Week | |---|---| | Self-Directed Learning | 3-4 | | Self-Assessments | 2-3 | | Other Assignments | 2-3 | | Discussion Boards | 3-4 |

| Total | 10-14 |

Course Topics:

• International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) including diacritics
• Complete sound inventory of spoken English
• Anatomy and Physiology of the articulators of speech
• Parameters to characterize vowel phonemes
• Place, Manner, and Voicing for the consonants of spoken English
• How to transcribe typical, disordered, and accented speech
• Features of connected speech like co-articulation, stress, intonation, and vowel reduction
• Phonological processes in child language acquisition
• Idiosyncratic processes in children with phonological disorders
• Parameters of acoustic signals in language transmission
• Symbols for foreign sounds
• Patterns of various accents and dialects

Teaching:

• Faculty: Thomas F. Shull, MS, CCC-SLP
• Teaching format: Online asynchronous lectures, videos, podcasts, and discussion boards.
• Unique approaches:
• Emphasis on practical application of IPA and acoustic phonetics principles.
• Exposure to diverse speech samples, including dialects and disorders.

Other:

• Course materials include a textbook, access to D2L learning platform, and ability to video conference and upload images/videos.
• This course is part of the Online Prerequisites for the Health Professions program.
• MGB employees, alumni, and affiliates are eligible for tuition reduction.