How age and community affect language development in deaf individuals
Effects of age of acquisition and of community on argument ordering
This study looks at how the age when deaf people first learn sign language and the type of sign language community they are part of affects how well they can organize their thoughts in language, and it’s designed for deaf individuals who use American, Vanuatu, or Fijian Sign Language, as well as their families.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10936523 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the age at which deaf individuals are first exposed to sign language and the characteristics of their language community influence their ability to order arguments in language. The study focuses on three groups of deaf individuals who use different sign languages: American Sign Language, Vanuatu Sign Language, and Fijian Sign Language. By analyzing how these individuals produce language through a picture description task, the research aims to understand the relationship between early language exposure and language development outcomes. This could provide insights into effective communication strategies for deaf children and their families.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include deaf individuals of varying ages who have been exposed to different sign languages, particularly those who are either very young or older adults.
Not a fit: Patients who are not deaf or who have not been exposed to sign language may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved language acquisition strategies for deaf children, enhancing their communication skills and overall cognitive development.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early exposure to language significantly impacts language development, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miles, Rachel Elizabeth — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Miles, Rachel Elizabeth
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.