Speech Exposure for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) learn new words by listening to conversations around them. Researchers aim to determine whether children with ASD learn new words more effectively by overhearing conversations (Overheard Speech) or through direct teaching (Addressed Speech). The goal is to assess how well these children remember and use new words in various situations. Children diagnosed with ASD who are native English speakers may be suitable for this study, particularly if they do not have other conditions affecting language or cognition. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to enhance understanding of language learning in children with ASD.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these speech exposure methods are safe for children with ASD?
Research has shown that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can learn new words by talking directly with someone or by listening to others, without any safety concerns. In a previous study with thirteen children with ASD, no negative effects occurred when they learned new words through direct interaction with an experimenter or by overhearing conversations between two adults. The study focused on how well the children could learn and remember new words, and they succeeded in both situations.
These studies have identified no known risks with learning methods involving direct interaction or listening. Learning occurs in normal settings where children either join conversations or listen to them. These methods are safe and have been well-received by the children. Although this study does not involve traditional medical treatments, the absence of negative side effects suggests that this approach is safe for participants. This supports the goal of exploring language learning in a safe and supportive environment for children with ASD.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Speech Exposure for Autism trial because it explores two innovative techniques for helping children with autism learn new words. Unlike traditional therapies that often involve direct instruction, this trial compares "Addressed Speech," where children interact directly with an experimenter using the word to be learned, and "Overheard Speech," where children learn by observing an experimenter use the word in conversation with another. These methods could offer more flexible and naturalistic ways for language acquisition, potentially enhancing communication skills in children with autism without the need for intensive, structured therapy sessions.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for learning word meanings in children with ASD?
Research has shown that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can learn new words by listening to both direct conversations and those they overhear. In this trial, participants will be divided into two groups: one group will engage in direct interactions with an experimenter using the word to be learned (Addressed Speech), while the other group will observe interactions between experimenters using the word (Overheard Speech). One study found that 13 children with ASD learned new words just by listening to adults talk. This finding suggests that overhearing conversations might be as helpful as direct teaching for language learning in children with ASD. Early interventions in ASD have also improved communication skills, with many children experiencing better speech abilities. Direct conversations, where children talk directly with someone, are known to enhance communication and social skills. Both methods hold promise for helping children with ASD learn language.16789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 18 to 71 months, with or without Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They must be native English speakers and not have been born prematurely. Children with uncorrected hearing or vision issues, photosensitive epileptic seizures, or other developmental disorders affecting language/cognition are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experiment 1
Children participate in interactions to learn word meanings from overhearing and direct teaching
Retention and Generalization Assessment
Children are re-tested on their knowledge of word meanings after a 10-minute delay to assess retention and generalization
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any additional learning outcomes or observations
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Addressed Speech
- Overheard Speech
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
New York University
Lead Sponsor
Emerson College
Collaborator
Emerson College
Collaborator