Exploring how American Sign Language affects spatial thinking skills
American Sign Language and Spatial Cognition Skills: A Neurocognitive Study Using EEG and Standardized Neuropsychological Assessments
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY · NIH-10999113
This study is looking at how knowing American Sign Language (ASL) might help improve skills like understanding directions and seeing things from different viewpoints, and it's designed for Deaf individuals to see how ASL affects their brain while they do these tasks.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10999113 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and spatial cognition skills, such as perspective-taking and navigation. It aims to understand how the unique spatial features of ASL may enhance visual-spatial abilities in its users. The study will utilize electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor brain activity while participants engage in spatial tasks, providing insights into how ASL influences cognitive processing. By examining these relationships, the research seeks to promote better health and well-being among Deaf individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 who are fluent in American Sign Language.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use American Sign Language or are outside the age range of 0-11 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive training methods and educational strategies for Deaf children, enhancing their spatial skills and overall cognitive development.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the cognitive benefits of bilingualism, including sign language, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES
- GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY — WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHWENK, MELODY FAITH — GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SCHWENK, MELODY FAITH
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.