Digital Media Modalities for Word Learning
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how young children learn new words through various types of digital media. It seeks to determine which digital formats, such as 2D screens or 3D experiences, most effectively aid vocabulary development. The trial includes several groups, each experiencing different combinations of 2D and 3D learning (referred to as Modality - 2D-2D, Modality - 2D-3D, and Modality - 3D-2D). It is suitable for children aged 18 to 30 months who have not been diagnosed with a developmental delay and who primarily hear one language. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for parents to contribute to understanding how digital media can enhance early language development.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.
What prior data suggests that these digital media modalities are safe for young children's word learning?
Research has shown that children generally respond well to using digital media for learning. Studies have found both positive and negative effects on children's thinking and social skills when they use screen-based media. However, no specific reports indicate negative effects from the different digital formats being tested, such as 2D-2D, 2D-3D, or 3D-2D.
In these studies, children engage with media in various ways, from simple 2D screens to more interactive 3D animations. For instance, 3D animations have succeeded in other educational settings, helping children grasp complex topics without any safety concerns.
Overall, while the effects on learning and development can vary, the digital formats themselves are considered safe for use in educational trials like this one. No evidence of harm exists, making these digital learning tools a promising area for further study.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how different digital media formats can enhance word learning. Traditionally, word learning relies on static 2D images or text. This study investigates dynamic and interactive experiences by presenting items in various combinations of 2D and 3D formats. The unique aspect here is how transitioning between 2D and 3D, or using solely 3D, might help improve the generalization of word learning. By understanding these effects, the trial aims to uncover insights that could lead to more effective educational tools and techniques.
What evidence suggests that this trial's modalities could be effective for word learning?
Research has shown that different digital methods can affect how children learn and remember words. In this trial, participants will be assigned to one of several treatment arms. In the 2D-2D arm, studies have found that children effectively learn by transferring knowledge between flat images, which helps them recognize and act on what they see. For the 2D-3D arm, evidence suggests that moving from flat images to 3D models can boost learning by engaging different thinking skills. Similarly, the 3D-2D arm, where learning starts with 3D objects and moves to flat images, has been found to improve understanding and memory because 3D models often offer more interactive and engaging experiences. Each method leverages the strengths of either flat or 3D formats to help children learn words effectively.36789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young children aged between 17 and 30 months who are healthy and primarily exposed to one language. Children with diagnosed developmental delays or disorders, or those significantly exposed to a second language (more than 25%), cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Word Learning Task
Children participate in a novel word learning task to test their ability to map and retain new words within and between digital media and real-world objects.
Generalization Task
Children's novel label generalization abilities are tested within and between 2D and 3D modalities using a novel noun generalization task.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for vocabulary growth and retention of learned words.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Modality - 2D-2D
- Modality - 2D-3D
- Modality - 3D-2D
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Oklahoma State University
Lead Sponsor
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Collaborator