Assessing language skills in African American children who speak a specific dialect
Measuring Language Competence in AA Children who are High Dialect Speakers
This study looks at how speaking African American English might influence how we judge the language skills of African American kids, especially to help tell the difference between language challenges and just speaking a different dialect, so we can better support their learning in reading and writing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10469613 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the use of African American English (AAE) affects the assessment of language skills in African American children. It aims to differentiate between language disorders and natural language differences by focusing on children who are high dialect speakers of AAE. The study will analyze the impact of AAE on language acquisition and academic performance, particularly in reading and writing. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to improve assessment methods and educational outcomes for these children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American children aged 0-11 years who are high dialect speakers of African American English.
Not a fit: Children who do not speak African American English or who are not within the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate assessments and better educational strategies for African American children who speak AAE.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding dialect differences can significantly improve educational outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Washington, Julie a. — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Washington, Julie a.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.