Investigating how simplifying language helps young children with autism learn words.
How Single-Word and Telegraphic Simplification Affects Language Processing and Word Learning in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
This study is looking at how using simpler language can help young children with autism learn new words better, and it’s designed to be friendly for kids with different communication skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11087577 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how different ways of simplifying language can aid young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in processing and learning new words. By using a method called the looking-while-listening paradigm, the study will observe how children respond to simplified speech in real-time. This approach is designed to be accessible for children with varying communication abilities, including those who are minimally verbal. The goal is to gather evidence that can inform better language intervention strategies for children with ASD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young children aged 0-11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Not a fit: Children who are not on the autism spectrum or who are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective language interventions that significantly improve communication skills in children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using simplified language to support language development in children with ASD, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venker, Courtney E — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Venker, Courtney E
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.