Learning Strategies for Autism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can learn verbs and pronouns by overhearing conversations. Unlike past studies that primarily examined learning nouns, which are words for objects, this trial has two parts: one focuses on verbs, and the other on pronouns, both in contexts that are either interesting or neutral to the child. Suitable participants have ASD, speak English as their first language, and have no other major language or cognitive disorders. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for children to contribute to groundbreaking research in language learning.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that these learning strategies are safe for children with ASD?
Research shows that using both direct and indirect speech with children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is safe. Studies have examined how these children understand and learn language. They found that children with ASD can learn well from both direct speech, where someone talks to them, and indirect speech, where they listen to conversations around them.
When speech is directed at them, children with ASD can engage and learn effectively. Similarly, research indicates that they can also learn new words, like nouns, by listening to conversations they are not directly involved in. These studies found no negative effects from using these speech methods.
Overall, these studies focus on understanding how children with ASD learn language, not on testing new medications or treatments. This means these speech methods are considered very safe. There is no evidence of harm from using these types of speech, making them safe and effective learning strategies for children with ASD.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Learning Strategies for Autism trial because it explores how children with autism process language differently when hearing speech that is personally relevant to them. Unlike traditional speech therapy, which often involves direct instruction or repetition, this trial investigates the impact of "addressed" speech (tailored directly to the child) versus "overheard" speech (language picked up from the environment). This approach could reveal new insights into more effective ways of enhancing language learning in children with autism by making communication more meaningful and engaging to them.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for learning word meanings in children with ASD?
This trial will compare two learning strategies for children with autism: Addressed Speech and Overheard Speech. Research has shown that children with autism can effectively learn language by listening to both direct conversations and those they overhear. Studies have found that direct speech improves their social communication skills. Specifically, 85% of children in these studies demonstrated some improvement, including enhanced speaking and communication abilities. Additionally, research indicates that children with autism can learn new words, such as nouns, just as effectively by overhearing conversations as through direct speech. Both methods can aid in developing language skills, offering more learning options.46789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This study is for children aged 24 to 71 months who either have Autism Spectrum Disorder or are typically developing. They must have a minimum language and nonverbal cognition age of 24 months, speak English as their native language, and not be born prematurely (<36 weeks). Children with uncorrected hearing or vision issues, photosensitive epilepsy, or other cognitive-impacting conditions besides ASD (except ADHD) cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Session
Children participate in sessions where they hear novel verbs and pronouns in contexts that are personally relevant or neutral
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for understanding and retention of word meanings after the experimental session
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