Understanding how tactile language and wearable tech can help DeafBlind children learn and use language
Official title: Evaluating the rehabilitative potential of tactile number expressions for multisensory vision and hearing loss using wearable haptics
Funded at Gallaudet University · NIH-11420818 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study at Gallaudet University tests a new tactile language and wearable haptic devices to help DeafBlind children build early language and everyday life skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Gallaudet University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $496,727 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033761-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11420818 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Children who are congenitally DeafBlind and have co-occurring hearing loss or related multisensory impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Children without DeafBlind or without access to tactile language development may not benefit from this intervention.
What this research studies
This project explores whether a fully tactile language called Protactile, used with wearable haptic feedback, can support early language development in congenitally DeafBlind children. It combines language-building activities with multisensory experiences to scaffold cognitive growth during critical developmental periods. The research design includes child-friendly interventions, caregiver involvement, and measurements of language milestones and daily functioning in a real-world setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could provide DeafBlind children with more accessible language options to support communication and independence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows promise for tactile language and paraprofessional support, but fully tactile Protactile language integration with wearables is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Gallaudet University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gagne, Deanna — Gallaudet University
- Study coordinator: Gagne, Deanna
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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.