Exploring how visual signs in American Sign Language help with language learning for deaf children.
Official title: Examining Iconicity with EEG: The role of Motoric Iconicity and Embodied Cognition in American Sign Language
Funded at Gallaudet University · NIH-11065360 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how using certain hand signs in American Sign Language can help deaf and hard-of-hearing kids, especially those with hearing parents, learn language better, and it aims to support caregivers in teaching these signs to improve communication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Gallaudet University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | January 14, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $77,468 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DC022467-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065360 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include deaf and hard-of-hearing children, particularly those under 11 years old, and their hearing caregivers who are learning ASL.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already proficient in ASL or those who do not have access to caregivers willing to learn sign language may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how motorically iconic signs in American Sign Language (ASL) can aid in language acquisition for deaf and hard-of-hearing children, particularly those born to hearing parents. The study focuses on the role of embodied cognition, which connects physical experiences with language processing, to enhance caregivers' ability to teach their children ASL. By supporting caregivers in learning these signs, the research aims to improve language exposure for children who may struggle with traditional auditory amplification methods. The project will utilize EEG technology to examine the cognitive processes involved in learning and using these signs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve language acquisition for deaf and hard-of-hearing children, leading to better academic and health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that using iconic signs can facilitate language learning, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Gallaudet University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcgarry, Meghan Elizabeth — Gallaudet University
- Study coordinator: Mcgarry, Meghan Elizabeth
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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.