Helping children with severe speech and physical impairments communicate using brain signals.
Official title: Foundations of Patient-Oriented AAC Access for Children: Evaluating Picture-Based P300-Brain-Computer Interface Control and Design Preferences
Funded at University of Nebraska Lincoln · NIH-10994632 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a special device that helps children with severe speech and movement challenges communicate better by using their brain signals, making it easier for them to express themselves and connect with others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Lincoln NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lincoln, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $186,202 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC021496-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994632 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have severe speech and physical impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have severe speech and physical impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve communication for children with severe speech and physical impairments (SSPI) by developing a brain-computer interface (BCI) that translates brain activity into control for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. The project focuses on using P300-based BCI technology, which detects brain signals associated with attention, to create a user-friendly communication method for children who struggle with traditional AAC options. By addressing the unique needs of younger children, this research seeks to enhance their ability to communicate effectively and improve their overall quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide children with SSPI a new, effective means of communication, significantly improving their quality of life and access to healthcare.
How similar studies have gone: While P300-BCI technology has shown promise in adult applications, this research is novel in its focus on younger children and their specific communication needs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Lincoln
Lincoln, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pitt, Kevin Michael — University of Nebraska Lincoln
- Study coordinator: Pitt, Kevin Michael
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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.