The PhD Program in Applied Sign Language Studies at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a pioneering interdisciplinary research program designed to advance knowledge, innovation, and inclusive practices in sign language studies, deaf education, communication accessibility, and assistive technologies. The program aims to develop scholars capable of addressing real-world challenges faced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities through rigorous research and evidence-based interventions. It combines theoretical foundations in sign linguistics and applied linguistics with practical applications in inclusive education, assistive technology, language policy, and social inclusion. The program focuses primarily but not exclusively on Indian Sign Language.
A unique feature of the program is its strong emphasis on sign language proficiency in research teams, ethical engagement with Deaf communities, and the use of sign language data in research. Students receive advanced training in the linguistics of sign languages and academic communication in signed and written modes, while also undertaking independent projects in applied sign language studies. The scholars of this program will be jointly guided by Prof. Ulrike Zeshan (Adjunct Professor at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Emeritus Professor, University of Lancashire and Academic Advisor, Happy Hands School for the Deaf) and Dr. Prema Nedungadi (Associate Dean of the School of Computing, Director of AmritaCREATE, and UNESCO Chair on Assistive Technologies in Education). Through its research-oriented curriculum, the program seeks to contribute to a more accessible, equitable, and linguistically inclusive society.
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has not appointed any agent or third-party representative within India for admissions to any programme. Students residing in India are advised not to make payments or seat reservation advances to any individual or organization claiming to offer admission assistance for Amrita campuses.
For international admissions, the University may work with authorized overseas representatives in select countries. International applicants are advised to verify the credentials of such representatives through official Amrita communication channels before proceeding with applications or payments.
– Issued in Public Interest by Directorate of Admissions and Academic Outreach
(Emeritus Professor, University of Lancashire and Academic Advisor, Happy Hands School for the Deaf) serves as an Adjunct Professor at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
(Associate Dean of the School of Computing, Director of AmritaCREATE, and UNESCO Chair on Assistive Technologies in Education)
The Amrita Center for Research in Accessible Technologies for Education (AmritaCREATE) is a multidisciplinary research facility dedicated to advancing educational technology through innovative digital solutions. It provides infrastructure for designing, developing, and evaluating technology-enabled learning environments that enhance educational accessibility, affordability, and quality. AmritaCREATE brings together expertise from diverse disciplines to conduct research on innovative pedagogies, educational frameworks, STEM and language learning, and the diffusion of personalized learning innovations, supported by nationally and internationally funded projects.
UNESCO Chair on Assistive Technologies in Education is dedicated to advancing inclusive education with a focus on mitigating disparities caused by the digital divide through equitable access to educational resources and assistive technologies.
The Chair operates within UNESCO’s global UNITWIN network to advance equitable access to learning. Its primary goals include:
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