Understanding how children develop language skills in early grades

Measuring Language Comprehension Development in the Primary Grades

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10885207

This study is looking at how to better identify and support young children, ages 0-11, who have trouble with communication due to developmental language disorder, by using new group tests to track their language skills over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10885207 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developmental language disorder (DLD), a common condition affecting children's ability to communicate effectively. It aims to improve the identification of DLD in children aged 0-11 years, particularly in the primary grades, by using innovative group-administered assessments that measure language comprehension skills. The study will track language development over time through regular assessments in grades K-2, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds are included. By enhancing the understanding of language development, the research seeks to create better support systems for children struggling with language skills.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years, particularly those in primary grades who may be experiencing difficulties with language comprehension.

Not a fit: Children who do not have any language comprehension issues or those outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification and better support for children with language disorders, improving their educational outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using group-administered assessments to evaluate language skills in educational settings, indicating that this approach is promising.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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 2026-06-09 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.