Improving word-finding in aphasia with retrieval practice
Retrieval Practice Principles: A Theory of Learning for Aphasia Rehabilitaion
This work uses a memory-based training method called retrieval practice to help people with aphasia get better at finding and naming words.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169810 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have trouble finding or naming words after a stroke or brain injury, this project tests therapy exercises that make you try to recall words and then give feedback, rather than only repeating words after being told them. The team builds on lab findings that correct recall and spacing practice help memory, and they will compare different practice schedules and feedback approaches. Sessions typically involve repeated naming tasks with feedback and adjustments based on how well items are learned. The goal is to make the exercises more like real clinical therapy so gains are useful in everyday communication.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with aphasia who have word retrieval or naming difficulties after stroke or other brain injury and who can attend language therapy sessions would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People whose communication problems are primarily due to severe comprehension deficits, non-language cognitive disorders, or who cannot participate in practice sessions may not benefit from these specific methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more effective speech therapy techniques that help people with aphasia regain word-finding and naming skills more reliably and for longer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown retrieval practice improves naming more than errorless repetition and that correct retrieval and spaced practice boost gains, and this project expands those findings into more clinically relevant therapy methods.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Middleton, Erica Lee — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Middleton, Erica Lee
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.