Improving word learning for deaf and hard of hearing children

Increasing Word Learning Efficiency in Children Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing Through Retrieval Practice

NA · Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NCT05512000

This study is testing if special learning techniques can help deaf and hard of hearing children aged 5 to 8 learn new words better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment16 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 8 Years
SexAll
SponsorVanderbilt University Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Nashville, Tennessee)
Trial IDNCT05512000 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of retrieval practice techniques, specifically feedback and spacing, to enhance word learning in children aged 5 to 8 who are deaf or hard of hearing. It employs a series of single case adapted alternating treatments involving four children per study to assess how these techniques impact the efficiency of learning and retention of new vocabulary. The research aims to address the challenges faced by this under-researched group by leveraging empirically validated methods to improve language skills. The findings are expected to inform better language intervention strategies for these children.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 5 to 8 with minimal prelingual hearing loss and standard scores of at least 70 for receptive and expressive vocabulary skills.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with below average nonverbal cognition, uncorrected vision impairment, or severe motor impairment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly enhance the language acquisition and retention abilities of deaf and hard of hearing children.

How similar studies have performed: While retrieval practice has been validated in other contexts, this specific application for deaf and hard of hearing children is relatively novel and underexplored.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* At least minimal prelingual hearing loss
* Standard scores of at least 70 for receptive and expressive vocabulary skills
* English is only spoken language

Exclusion Criteria:

* Below average nonverbal cognition
* Uncorrected vision impairment
* Evidence of severe motor impairment

Where this trial is running

Nashville, Tennessee

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hearing Loss, Language Impairment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.