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Chloe Patman, MA Forensic Phonetics 2021/22

What are your research interests / what are you working on?

My research interests include Forensic Speech Science, Face coverings and Phonetics, Sociophonetics and Speaker Comparison casework. I am just about to begin a PhD where my research aims to shed light on the perceptual consequences of talking when wearing a face covering (an act which has now become commonplace because of COVID-19). The overarching objective of my research is to understand the extent to which face coverings impact our ability to understand natural speech through a mask. My project also considers perceived voice similarity through a mask by both humans and machines (Automatic Speaker Recognition systems) as well as our social perceptions of the speaker, for example, interpreting a speaker’s attitudes and emotions.

What was your favourite module and why? 

My favourite modules were Introduction to Forensic Speech Science and Technical Foundations in Forensic Speech Science. Both of these modules were great as they allowed to you gain both theoretical knowledge but also hands on practical experience.

Why York rather than somewhere else?

From the very first day I arrived at York in 2018 to study BA English Language and Linguistics I felt supported by the department. The staff are really good at explaining things and they also take time to get to know you as an individual. I loved doing my undergraduate degree at York so much so that I couldn't have imagined doing my Masters anywhere else. Once again in my Masters year the staff were so supportive and helped me to achieve my full academic potential.

How has your experience at York broadened your horizons as a linguist?

Not only do I feel as though I have been provided with an excellent grounding in the core phonetic theories, I also feel as though I have been given the opportunity to analyse casework and understand how the work we do can have an impact on the real world .

What was the level of support like from staff and the department as a whole? Were they receptive to feedback? 

To summarise in one word it was amazing. Everyone was always there when you needed and that I am really grateful for.

What was your favourite aspect of living and studying at York? 

I loved the city. It felt so homely and really did become my home away from home for four years.

What do you feel is the most important thing you will take away from your experience at York?

My experience has given me more confidence in my skills as a linguist. I am now super excited to use these skills to tackle my own research.