Measuring vocal communication in individuals who speak minimally
Official title: Using Mobile Technology and Real-World Vocalization Samples to Generate Quantitative Metrics of Vocal Communication for Minimally-Speaking Individuals
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-10785932 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to understand how people with limited speech, especially those over 5 years old, communicate by using mobile technology to track their vocal sounds in everyday situations, so we can improve support and care for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $140,458 |
| NIH project number | 1K25DC021502-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10785932 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 5 and older who are minimally-speaking and communicate primarily through vocalizations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have typical speech abilities or do not fall within the minimally-speaking category may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new ways to measure vocal communication in individuals who have limited speech abilities, particularly those over the age of 5. By utilizing mobile technology and analyzing real-world vocalization samples, the project aims to create quantitative metrics that accurately reflect the communication skills of minimally-speaking individuals. This approach seeks to overcome the limitations of current qualitative measures, which often rely on subjective caregiver reports and brief clinical observations. The goal is to provide a more precise understanding of how these individuals communicate, which could enhance clinical assessments and interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication assessments and interventions for minimally-speaking individuals, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited research specifically targeting this population, the use of mobile technology for communication assessment has shown promise in other areas, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Kristina Teresa — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Kristina Teresa
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.