Investigating language development in children with communication challenges
Measuring Aided Language Development
NA · University of Central Florida · NCT06512168
This study is testing new ways to measure language growth in preschoolers with communication challenges, like Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, to see what helps them learn to talk better.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 42 Months to 60 Months |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Central Florida (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Orlando, Florida) |
| Trial ID | NCT06512168 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to systematically evaluate the psychometric properties of various aided language measures based on the Graphic Symbol Utterance and Sentence Development Framework. It will assess the effectiveness of these measures in capturing language growth in preschoolers with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and other speech disorders who have undergone aided language intervention. The research will also identify the most effective contexts for eliciting aided language use, ultimately leading to reliable measures that can differentiate growth across different populations and dimensions of language acquisition.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include preschoolers with Down Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy who have significant speech impairments and can express at least 25 words.
Not a fit: Patients with a clinical diagnosis of Autism or Social Communication Disorder may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide reliable tools for measuring language development in children with complex communication needs, enhancing their communication skills.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to measure language development in children with communication challenges, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical Identification of Down Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy + Significant Speech Impairment * Must Speak English as a Primary Language * Must Be Able to Express At Least 25 Words (using any communication mode) * Must Be Able to Accurately Select Picture Symbols on iPad Communication App with at Least 50% Accuracy * Vision and Hearing within Functional Limits or Corrected to be within Functional Limits for Study Activities Exclusion Criteria: * Clinical Diagnosis of Autism or Social Communication Disorder * Primary Language Spoken is A Language Other than English
Where this trial is running
Orlando, Florida
- University of Central Florida - Innovative Center — Orlando, Florida, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jennifer Kent-Walsh, PhD
- Email: Jkentwalsh@ucf.edu
- Phone: 407-823-4800
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Apraxia of Speech, Speech Sound Disorder, Speech Disorders in Children, Speech and Language Disorder, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Complex Communication Needs