Longitudinal study of deaf children and their hearing parents learning American Sign Language
Family ASL: Longitudinal Study of Deaf Children and Hearing Parents Who Receive Services to Support the Learning of American Sign Language (ASL)
This study is testing how deaf children and their hearing parents can improve their American Sign Language skills through regular practice with an ASL Specialist.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 2 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Connecticut Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Storrs, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT04988451 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines how deaf and hard of hearing children, along with their hearing parents, develop American Sign Language (ASL) skills. Participants will undergo initial language assessments to establish baseline ASL proficiency before engaging in weekly sessions with an ASL Specialist. The intervention follows a structured ABABABAB sequence, alternating between periods of active learning and breaks. The goal is to enhance language development through consistent ASL practice and support.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include deaf or hard-of-hearing children aged 2 to 2 years and 11 months, along with one adult caregiver who is involved in their language development.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with additional diagnosed conditions affecting language and cognitive development or families lacking internet access.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve ASL proficiency and language development in deaf children and their hearing parents.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in language development interventions for deaf children, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Children: * Children ages 2;00 - 2;11 at the start of the longitudinal project * Child is Deaf/ Hard-of-Hearing * Participating in a program utilizing a bimodal bilingual philosophy Adults: - One adult caregiver for each child Exclusion Criteria: * Children with previously-diagnosed conditions other than deafness known to affect language and cognitive development * Families without access to internet (at home or other locations)
Where this trial is running
Storrs, Connecticut
- University of Connecticut - Department of Linguistics — Storrs, Connecticut, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Diane C Lillo-Martin, Ph.D. — University of Connecticut
- Study coordinator: Diane C Lillo-Martin, Ph.D.
- Email: diane.lillo-martin@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-0155
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.