Improving word learning in children who are deaf and hard of hearing

Increasing Word Learning Efficiency in Children who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing through Retrieval Practice

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10794938

This study is looking at how to help children who are deaf and hard of hearing learn new words better by using special techniques that involve practicing and getting feedback, so they can catch up with their hearing friends in learning spoken language.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10794938 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the efficiency of word learning in children who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) by utilizing a method called retrieval practice. The approach involves providing feedback and spacing out word presentations to help these children learn more effectively. By applying techniques from cognitive psychology, the study aims to address the challenges faced by DHH children in acquiring spoken language skills, which often lag behind their hearing peers. The goal is to develop interventions that can significantly improve their language acquisition rates and educational outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who are deaf or hard of hearing and are seeking to improve their spoken language skills.

Not a fit: Patients who are not deaf or hard of hearing, or those who have already achieved age-expected language skills, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective language learning strategies for children who are deaf and hard of hearing, ultimately improving their communication skills and educational achievements.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that retrieval practice can be effective in educational settings, but its application specifically for children who are deaf and hard of hearing is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.