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Pollick SA, Pesch MH, Spellun A, Betances EM, Wiley S, Geer LC, Prout KK, Hu M, Nyp SS. Hearing Loss and Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2024:00004703-990000000-00199. [PMID: 39140901 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000001308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
CASE Gretta is a 3.5-year-old girl with a history of congenital cytomegalovirus, congenital bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), and bilateral vestibular dysfunction, resulting in frequent falls. She underwent cochlear implantation at 12 months of age and was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at 2.5 years of age.On presentation for follow-up in the developmental-behavioral pediatrics (DBP) clinic, Gretta's mother reports that Gretta has refused to wear her cochlear implants for the past 5 months. Before that, she seemed to enjoy having access to sound and like dancing to music, and her receptive and expressive language skills, including speech, were progressing. Initially, the rejection of her devices occurred only at preschool. When frustrated or overwhelmed, she would close her eyes and remove her devices for up to 5 minutes before allowing them to be reapplied. Over time, this progressed to a complete refusal to wear her devices at school and then at home, rendering her without access to sound and spoken language.Gretta's mood has become sullen, and she is now having tantrums at school. She physically startles when attempts are made to reintroduce her devices. Her ability to participate in classroom learning or interact with her classmates is limited, as she attends a spoken-language-focused preschool program. A board-certified behavioral analyst, hired by the family, recommended that Gretta not be allowed to participate in classroom activities unless she wears her devices. She now becomes visibly anxious even when in the same room as her devices and repetitively states "no implant, no implant." Her mother is worried about her inability to communicate and has "no idea" what may have changed or sparked her initial refusal to wear the devices.What factors would you consider when determining the cause and function of Gretta's refusal to wear the cochlear implants? How would you guide her parents, teachers, and clinicians to ensure the best developmental and behavioral outcomes for her?
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Pollick
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Megan Honor Pesch
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Arielle Spellun
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Elodie M Betances
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Susan Wiley
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Leah C Geer
- California State University, Sacramento, Sacramento, CA
| | - Kerry K Prout
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
- UMKC School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO
| | - Michelle Hu
- Audiology Department of Hearing, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA; and
| | - Sarah S Nyp
- Division of Developmental and Behavioral Health Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
- University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO
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2
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Reimer CK, Grantham H, Butler AC. The effect of retrieval practice on vocabulary learning for DHH children. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2024; 29:377-387. [PMID: 38330211 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
On average, deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) children have difficulty developing expressive spoken vocabulary comparable to hearing peers. Yet, there are no evidence-based practices to guide classroom instruction for teachers of the deaf. Retrieval practice-a robust learning strategy-has been shown to improve children's retention of vocabulary, but it has not been investigated with DHH children who use listening and spoken language. The present study examined whether DHH children benefit from using retrieval practice to learn new vocabulary. Sixteen DHH children (in the age range of 5.0-8.11 years) were taught a set of new vocabulary words using retrieval practice or repeated exposure. A recall test was administered two days later. Results showed that DHH children were twice as likely to recall a word taught through retrieval practice than exposure (OR = 2.01, p = .02). Presence of an additional diagnosis and number of practice trials were also significant predicting factors of vocabulary learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey K Reimer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Heather Grantham
- Department of Otolaryngology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- CID - Central Institute for the Deaf, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Andrew C Butler
- Department of Education and Department of Psychology, Washington Universityin St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
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3
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Warner-Czyz AD, Anderson SR, Graham S, Uhler K. Expressive vocabulary word categories of children who are deaf and hard-of-hearing. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2024; 29:362-376. [PMID: 38240124 PMCID: PMC11195470 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the acquisition of early expressive vocabulary among young children who are deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH; n = 68) using auditory technology (hearing aids and cochlear implants). Parents completed a standardized vocabulary checklist, which allowed analyses of (i) the size of their child's spoken vocabulary; (ii) composition of the expressive lexicon (e.g., parts of speech such as nouns and verbs; semantic categories such as routines and body parts); and (iii) demographic and audiologic factors (e.g., chronologic age, degree of hearing access) potentially associated with these metrics. Young children who are DHH and use auditory technology acquired fewer spoken words than peers with typical hearing (TH) matched for chronologic age but more spoken words than peers with TH matched for listening experience. Action verbs-not nouns-significantly increased the odds of a child who is DHH achieving a vocabulary quotient within the normative range. These findings support the exploration of early expressive vocabulary size and composition-especially the number of active verbs-to guide clinical management and decision-making for young children who are DHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D Warner-Czyz
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, TX, United States
- Callier Center for Communication Disorders, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sean R Anderson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Colorado University Anschutz School of Medicine, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Sarah Graham
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Kristin Uhler
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Colorado University Anschutz School of Medicine, Denver, CO, United States
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Denver, CO, United States
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4
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Wainscott SD, Spurgin K. Differentiating Language for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing: A Practice-Informed Framework for Auditory and Visual Supports. Lang Speech Hear Serv Sch 2024; 55:473-494. [PMID: 38324382 DOI: 10.1044/2023_lshss-22-00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serving students who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing (Deaf/hh) and their deaf education counterparts must navigate complexities in language that include modalities that are spoken or signed and proficiency, which is often compromised. This tutorial describes a practice-informed framework that conceptualizes and organizes a continuum of auditory and visual language supports with the aim of informing the practice of the SLP whose training is more inherently focused on spoken language alone, as well as the practice of the teacher of the Deaf/hh (TDHH) who may focus more on visual language supports. METHOD This product resulted from a need within interdisciplinary, graduate programs for SLPs and TDHHs. Both cohorts required preparation to address the needs of diverse language learners who are Deaf/hh. This tutorial includes a brief review of the challenges in developing language proficiency and describes the complexities of effective service delivery. The process of developing a practice-informed framework for language supports is summarized, referencing established practices in auditory-based and visually based methodologies, identifying parallel practices, and summarizing the practices within a multitiered framework called the Framework of Differentiated Practices for Language Support. Recommendations for use of the framework include guidance on the identification of a student's language modality/ies and proficiency to effectively match students' needs and target supports. CONCLUSIONS An examination of established practices in language supports across auditory and visual modalities reveals clear parallels that can be organized into a tiered framework. The result is a reference for differentiating language for the interdisciplinary school team. The parallel supports also provide evidence of similarities in practice across philosophical boundaries as professionals work collaboratively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D Wainscott
- Department of Communication Sciences and Oral Health, Texas Woman's University, Denton
| | - Kelsey Spurgin
- Department of Special Education, Ball State University, Muncie, IN
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5
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Szarkowski A, Moeller MP, Gale E, Smith T, Birdsey BC, Moodie STF, Carr G, Stredler-Brown A, Yoshinaga-Itano C, Holzinger D. Family-Centered Early Intervention Deaf/Hard of Hearing (FCEI-DHH): Cultural & Global Implications. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2024; 29:SI27-SI39. [PMID: 38422445 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This article is the third in a series of eight articles that comprise this special issue on family-centered early intervention for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families (FCEI-DHH). It highlights the origins of FCEI-DHH in Western contexts and well-resourced locations and emphasizes the role of culture(s) in shaping FCEI-DHH. This article also cautions against the direct application of the 10 FCEI-DHH Principles presented in this issue across the globe without consideration of cultural implications. Cultural perceptions of decision-making processes and persons who can be decision-makers in FCEI-DHH are explored. Deaf culture(s) and the benefits of exposure to DHH adults with diverse backgrounds are introduced. Structural inequities that impact families' access to FCEI-DHH programs/services and systems, within and among nations and regions, are noted. The need to consider the cultural influences on families is emphasized; this applies to all levels of FCEI, including the development of systems through implementation of supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Szarkowski
- The Institute, Children's Center for Communication/Beverly School for the Deaf, Beverly, MA, United States
- Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mary Pat Moeller
- Center for Childhood Deafness, Language & Learning, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Elaine Gale
- School of Education, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Bianca C Birdsey
- Global Coalition of Parents of Children Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (GPODHH), Durban, South Africa
| | - Sheila T F Moodie
- Health Sciences, School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Gwen Carr
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention and Family Centered Practice, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arlene Stredler-Brown
- Colorado Early Hearing Detection and Intervention, Colorado Department of Human Services, Denver, CO, United States
| | | | - Daniel Holzinger
- Institute of Neurology of Senses and Language, Hospital of St. John of God, Linz, Austria
- Research Institute for Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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Szarkowski A, Moeller MP, Gale E, Smith T, Birdsey BC, Moodie STF, Carr G, Stredler-Brown A, Yoshinaga-Itano C, Holzinger D. Family-Centered Early Intervention Deaf/Hard of Hearing (FCEI-DHH): Support Principles. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2024; 29:SI64-SI85. [PMID: 38422442 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This article is the sixth in a series of eight articles that comprise a special issue on Family-Centered Early Intervention (FCEI) for children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) and their families, or FCEI-DHH. The Support Principles article is the second of three articles that describe the 10 Principles of FCEI-DHH, preceded by the Foundation Principles, and followed by the Structure Principles, all in this special issue. The Support Principles are composed of four Principles (Principles 3, 4, 5, and 6) that highlight (a) the importance of a variety of supports for families raising children who are DHH; (b) the need to attend to and ensure the well-being of all children who are DHH; (c) the necessity of building the language and communication abilities of children who are DHH and their family members; and (d) the importance of considering the family's strengths, needs, and values in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Szarkowski
- The Institute, Children's Children's Center for Communication/Beverly School for the Deaf, Beverly, MA, United States
- Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mary Pat Moeller
- Center for Childhood Deafness, Language & Learning, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Elaine Gale
- School of Education, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Program, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Bianca C Birdsey
- Global Coalition of Parents of Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (GPODHH), Durban, South Africa
| | - Sheila T F Moodie
- Health Sciences, School of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Gwen Carr
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention and Family Centered Practice, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arlene Stredler-Brown
- Colorado Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program, Colorado Department of Human Services, Denver, CO, United States
| | | | - Daniel Holzinger
- Institute of Neurology of Senses and Language, Hospital of St. John of God, Linz, Austria
- Research Institute for Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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Lieberman AM, Mitchiner J, Pontecorvo E. Hearing parents learning American Sign Language with their deaf children: a mixed-methods survey. APPLIED LINGUISTICS REVIEW 2024; 15:309-333. [PMID: 38221976 PMCID: PMC10785677 DOI: 10.1515/applirev-2021-0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Hearing parents with deaf children face difficult decisions about what language(s) to use with their child. Sign languages such as American Sign Language (ASL) are fully accessible to deaf children, yet most hearing parents are not proficient in ASL prior to having a deaf child. Parents are often discouraged from learning ASL based in part on an assumption that it will be too difficult, yet there is little evidence supporting this claim. In this mixed-methods study, we surveyed hearing parents of deaf children (n = 100) who had learned ASL to learn more about their experiences. In their survey responses, parents identified a range of resources that supported their ASL learning as well as frequent barriers. Parents identified strongly with belief statements indicating the importance of ASL and affirmed that learning ASL is attainable for hearing parents. We discuss the implications of this study for parents who are considering ASL as a language choice and for the professionals who guide them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. Lieberman
- Wheelock College of Education and Human Development, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Mitchiner
- Department of Education, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Elana Pontecorvo
- Wheelock College of Education and Human Development, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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Seidl AH, Indarjit M, Borovsky A. Touch to learn: Multisensory input supports word learning and processing. Dev Sci 2024; 27:e13419. [PMID: 37291692 PMCID: PMC10704002 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Infants experience language in rich multisensory environments. For example, they may first be exposed to the word applesauce while touching, tasting, smelling, and seeing applesauce. In three experiments using different methods we asked whether the number of distinct senses linked with the semantic features of objects would impact word recognition and learning. Specifically, in Experiment 1 we asked whether words linked with more multisensory experiences were learned earlier than words linked fewer multisensory experiences. In Experiment 2, we asked whether 2-year-olds' known words linked with more multisensory experiences were better recognized than those linked with fewer. Finally, in Experiment 3, we taught 2-year-olds labels for novel objects that were linked with either just visual or visual and tactile experiences and asked whether this impacted their ability to learn the new label-to-object mappings. Results converge to support an account in which richer multisensory experiences better support word learning. We discuss two pathways through which rich multisensory experiences might support word learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda H Seidl
- Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Michelle Indarjit
- Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Arielle Borovsky
- Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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Terry J, Rance J. Systems that support hearing families with deaf children: A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288771. [PMID: 38011100 PMCID: PMC10686551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents who have limited knowledge about deafness and require comprehensive support and information to support and communicate with their deaf child. However, little is known about the systems that support hearing families with deaf children. We performed a scoping review to provide an overview of current literature on the topic. METHODS The protocol of the scoping review was prepared using the PRISMA statement guidelines for scoping reviews. Relevant search terms were used to identify eligible studies following discussion with the study's steering group. Databases searched were CINAHL, Medline, ProQuest Central and ASSIA, as well as grey literature from relevant journals and online sources. Included were studies published from 2000 to 2021 and available in English. RESULTS A search of databases identified 1274 articles. After excluding duplicates, screening titles and abstracts and full texts, 65 papers matched the identified inclusion criteria. Results included 1 RCT, 7 comparative studies, 6 literature reviews, 4 PhD theses, and 47 further empirical studies. CONCLUSION There is limited quality evidence on what supports hearing parents with deaf children. It is evident that further studies are needed to ensure comprehensive support is accessible and effective for hearing parents of deaf children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Terry
- School of Health and Social Care, Faculty of Medicine Health and Life
Science, Swansea University, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Jaynie Rance
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine Health and Life Science,
Swansea University, Wales, United Kingdom
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10
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Emmorey K. Ten things you should know about sign languages. CURRENT DIRECTIONS IN PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2023; 32:387-394. [PMID: 37829330 PMCID: PMC10568932 DOI: 10.1177/09637214231173071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The ten things you should know about sign languages are the following. 1) Sign languages have phonology and poetry. 2) Sign languages vary in their linguistic structure and family history, but share some typological features due to their shared biology (manual production). 3) Although there are many similarities between perceiving and producing speech and sign, the biology of language can impact aspects of processing. 4) Iconicity is pervasive in sign language lexicons and can play a role in language acquisition and processing. 5) Deaf and hard-of-hearing children are at risk for language deprivation. 6) Signers gesture when signing. 7) Sign language experience enhances some visual-spatial skills. 8) The same left hemisphere brain regions support both spoken and sign languages, but some neural regions are specific to sign language. 9) Bimodal bilinguals can code-blend, rather code-switch, which alters the nature of language control. 10) The emergence of new sign languages reveals patterns of language creation and evolution. These discoveries reveal how language modality does and does not affect language structure, acquisition, processing, use, and representation in the brain. Sign languages provide unique insights into human language that cannot be obtained by studying spoken languages alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Emmorey
- School of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, San Diego State University
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11
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Ziubanova AA, Laurinavichyute AK, Parshina O. Does early exposure to spoken and sign language affect reading fluency in deaf and hard-of-hearing adult signers? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1145638. [PMID: 37799519 PMCID: PMC10548548 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1145638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early linguistic background, and in particular, access to language, lays the foundation of future reading skills in deaf and hard-of-hearing signers. The current study aims to estimate the impact of two factors - early access to sign and/or spoken language - on reading fluency in deaf and hard-of-hearing adult Russian Sign Language speakers. Methods In the eye-tracking experiment, 26 deaf and 14 hard-of-hearing native Russian Sign Language speakers read 144 sentences from the Russian Sentence Corpus. Analysis of global eye-movement trajectories (scanpaths) was used to identify clusters of typical reading trajectories. The role of early access to sign and spoken language as well as vocabulary size as predictors of the more fluent reading pattern was tested. Results Hard-of-hearing signers with early access to sign language read more fluently than those who were exposed to sign language later in life or deaf signers without access to speech sounds. No association between early access to spoken language and reading fluency was found. Discussion Our results suggest a unique advantage for the hard-of-hearing individuals from having early access to both sign and spoken language and support the existing claims that early exposure to sign language is beneficial not only for deaf but also for hard-of-hearing children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Olga Parshina
- Psychology Department, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, United States
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12
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Goodwin C, Lillo-Martin D. Deaf and Hearing American Sign Language-English Bilinguals: Typical Bilingual Language Development. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2023; 28:350-362. [PMID: 37516457 PMCID: PMC10516340 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enad026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Some studies have concluded that sign language hinders spoken language development for deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) children even though sign language exposure could protect DHH children from experiencing language deprivation. Furthermore, this research has rarely considered the bilingualism of children learning a signed and a spoken language. Here we compare spoken English development in 2-6-year-old deaf and hearing American Sign Language-English bilingual children to each other and to monolingual English speakers in a comparison database. Age predicted bilinguals' language scores on all measures, whereas hearing status was only significant for one measure. Both bilingual groups tended to score below monolinguals. Deaf bilinguals' scores differed more from monolinguals, potentially because of later age of and less total exposure to English, and/or to hearing through a cochlear implant. Overall, these results are consistent with typical early bilingual language development. Research and practice must treat signing-speaking children as bilinguals and consider the bilingual language development literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Goodwin
- Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Diane Lillo-Martin
- Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
- Haskins Laboratories, New Haven, CT, USA
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13
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Gärdenfors M, Johansson V. Written products and writing processes in Swedish deaf and hard of hearing children: an explorative study on the impact of linguistic background. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1112263. [PMID: 37228344 PMCID: PMC10203585 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1112263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The small body of research on writing and writing processes in the group of deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children has shown that this group struggles more with writing than their hearing peers. This article aims to explore in what ways the DHH group differs from their peers regarding the written product and the writing processes. Participants are all in the age span 10-12 years old and include: (a) 12 DHH children with knowledge of Swedish sign language (Svenskt teckenspråk, STS) as well as spoken Swedish, (b) 10 age-matched hearing children of deaf adults (CODA) who know STS, (c) 14 age-matched hearing peers with no STS knowledge. More specifically we investigate how text length and lexical properties relate to writing processes such as planning (measured through pauses) and revision, and how the background factors of age, gender, hearing and knowledge of STS predict the outcome in product and process. The data consists of picture-elicited narratives collected with keystroke logging. The overall results show that age is a strong predictor for writing fluency, longer texts and more sophisticated lexicon for all the children. This confirms theories on writing development which stress that when children have automatized basic low-level processes such as transcription and spelling, this will free up cognitive space for engaging in high-level processes, such as planning and revision-which in turn will result in more mature texts. What characterizes the DHH group is slower writing fluency, higher lexical density, due to omitted function words, and extensive revisions (both deletions and insertions) on word level and below. One explanation for the last finding is that limitations in the auditory input lead to more uncertainty regarding correct and appropriate lexical choices, as well as spelling. The article contributes with more specific knowledge on what is challenging during writing for DHH children with knowledge of STS and spoken Swedish in middle school, in the developmental stage when basic writing skills are established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moa Gärdenfors
- Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Humanities, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Victoria Johansson
- Department of Primary Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, Kristianstad University, Kristianstad, Sweden
- Centre for Languages and Literature, Joint Faculties of Humanities and Theology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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14
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Berger L, Pyers J, Lieberman A, Caselli N. Parent American Sign Language skills correlate with child-but not toddler-ASL vocabulary size. LANGUAGE ACQUISITION 2023; 31:85-99. [PMID: 38510461 PMCID: PMC10950064 DOI: 10.1080/10489223.2023.2178312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Most deaf children have hearing parents who do not know a sign language at birth, and are at risk of limited language input during early childhood. Studying these children as they learn a sign language has revealed that timing of first-language exposure critically shapes language outcomes. But the input deaf children receive in their first language is not only delayed, it is much more variable than most first language learners, as many learn their first language from parents who are themselves new sign language learners. Much of the research on deaf children learning a sign language has considered the role of parent input using broad strokes, categorizing hearing parents as non-native, poor signers, and deaf parents as native, strong signers. In this study, we deconstruct these categories, and examine how variation in sign language skills among hearing parents might affect children's vocabulary acquisition. This study included 44 deaf children between 8- and 60-months-old who were learning ASL and had hearing parents who were also learning ASL. We observed an interactive effect of parent ASL proficiency and age, such that parent ASL proficiency was a significant predictor of child ASL vocabulary size, but not among the infants and toddlers. The proficiency of language models can affect acquisition above and beyond age of acquisition, particularly as children grow. At the same time, the most skilled parents in this sample were not as fluent as "native" deaf signers, and yet their children reliably had age-expected ASL vocabularies. Data and reproducible analyses are available at https://osf.io/9ya6h/.
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15
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Pontecorvo E, Higgins M, Mora J, Lieberman AM, Pyers J, Caselli NK. Learning a Sign Language Does Not Hinder Acquisition of a Spoken Language. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2023; 66:1291-1308. [PMID: 36972338 PMCID: PMC10187967 DOI: 10.1044/2022_jslhr-22-00505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to determine whether and how learning American Sign Language (ASL) is associated with spoken English skills in a sample of ASL-English bilingual deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. METHOD This cross-sectional study of vocabulary size included 56 DHH children between 8 and 60 months of age who were learning both ASL and spoken English and had hearing parents. English and ASL vocabulary were independently assessed via parent report checklists. RESULTS ASL vocabulary size positively correlated with spoken English vocabulary size. Spoken English vocabulary sizes in the ASL-English bilingual DHH children in the present sample were comparable to those in previous reports of monolingual DHH children who were learning only English. ASL-English bilingual DHH children had total vocabularies (combining ASL and English) that were equivalent to same-age hearing monolingual children. Children with large ASL vocabularies were more likely to have spoken English vocabularies in the average range based on norms for hearing monolingual children. CONCLUSIONS Contrary to predictions often cited in the literature, acquisition of sign language does not harm spoken vocabulary acquisition. This retrospective, correlational study cannot determine whether there is a causal relationship between sign language and spoken language vocabulary acquisition, but if a causal relationship exists, the evidence here suggests that the effect would be positive. Bilingual DHH children have age-expected vocabularies when considering the entirety of their language skills. We found no evidence to support recommendations that families with DHH children avoid learning sign language. Rather, our findings show that children with early ASL exposure can develop age-appropriate vocabulary skills in both ASL and spoken English.
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16
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Development of visual sustained selective attention and response inhibition in deaf children. Mem Cognit 2023; 51:509-525. [PMID: 35794408 DOI: 10.3758/s13421-022-01330-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Studies of deaf and hard-of-hearing (henceforth, deaf) children tend to make comparisons with typically hearing children for the purpose of either identifying deficits to be remediated or understanding the impact of auditory deprivation on visual or domain general processing. Here, we eschew these clinical and theoretical aims, seeking instead to understand factors that explain variability in cognitive function within deaf children. A total of 108 bilingual deaf children ages 7-13 years who use both English and American Sign Language (ASL) participated in a longitudinal study of executive function (EF) development. We report longitudinal data from a visual continuous performance task that measured sustained selective attention and response inhibition. Results show that the impact of deafness on these processes is negligible, but that language skills have a positive relationship with both: better English abilities were associated with better selective sustained attention, and better ASL abilities with better response inhibition. The relationship between sustained selective attention and English abilities may reflect the cognitive demands of spoken language acquisition for deaf children, whereas better ASL abilities may promote an "inner voice," associated with improved response inhibition. The current study cannot conclusively demonstrate causality or directionality of effects. However, these data highlight the importance of studies that focus on atypical individuals, for whom the relationships between language and cognition may be different from those observed in typically developing populations.
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17
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Gärdenfors M. Writing Development in DHH Students: A Bimodal Bilingual Approach. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2023; 28:211-225. [PMID: 36964761 PMCID: PMC10039645 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enac045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This article describes the lexical and syntactic development of written narratives in 24 deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) students aged between 8 and 18 and takes into account how their varying linguistic backgrounds may predict their written performance. All participants use spoken Swedish, but the study also considers their proficiency in Swedish Sign language, which ranged from zero to fluent. Their narrative texts were analyzed in regard to syntax and lexicon, which demonstrated a strong developmental trend in which increased age predicted more complex texts. Age of acquisition did not predict any writing outcome, which is suggested to occur because all participants were exposed to language early, that is, within the critical time window for language acquisition. Sign language proficiency showed a tendency to predict adjective density and number of clauses, which encourages future research in this area, especially since this connection argues for the benefits of early access to a language and the positive relationship between sign language proficiency and writing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moa Gärdenfors
- Correspondence should be addressed to Moa Gärdenfors, Department of Linguistics, Stockholm University, Sweden. E-mail:
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18
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Herzig M, Allen TE. Deaf Children's Engagement with American Sign Language-English Bilingual Storybook Apps. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2022; 28:53-67. [PMID: 36223888 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Design features of American Sign Language (ASL)-English bilingual storybook apps on the tablet computers, based on learning research, are intended to facilitate independent and interactive learning of English print literacy and of ASL skill among young learners. In 2013, the Science of Learning Center on Visual Language and Visual Learning introduced the first in a series of storybook apps for the iPad based on literacy and reading research. The current study, employing a sample of signing deaf children examined children's self-motivated engagement with the various design features presented in the earliest of the apps, The Baobab, and analyzed the relationships of engagement with ASL skill and age of first exposure to ASL, ASL narrative ability, and grade-appropriate English reading ability. Results indicated a robust level of engagement with the app, and a relationship between app pages specifically targeting reading and early exposure and skill levels in ASL. No evidence of relationships between narrative and vocabulary skills and app reading engagement was found. Topics for future research, and strategies for app improvement are discussed.
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19
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Hernandez B, Allen TE, Morere DA. ASL Developmental Trends Among Deaf Children, Ages Birth to Five. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2022; 28:7-20. [PMID: 36221907 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enac036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Language development is an important facet of early life. Deaf children may have exposure to various languages and communication modalities, including spoken and visual. Previous research has documented the rate of growth of English skills among young deaf children, but no studies have investigated the rate of ASL acquisition. The current paper examines young deaf children's acquisition of ASL skills, the rate of growth over time, and factors impacting levels and growth rates. Seventy-three children ages birth to 5 were rated three times using the Visual Communication and Sign Language Checklist and given a scaled score at each rating. An average monthly gain score was calculated for each participant. The presence of a deaf parent, use of ASL at home, use of cochlear implant(s), whether the child was born deaf, and age of initial diagnosis were analyzed for their impact on the level of ASL skill and rate of growth. Results indicated that the use of ASL in the home has a significant positive effect on deaf children's ASL skill level. Additionally, children with lower initial ratings showed higher rates of growth than those with higher initial ratings, especially among school-aged children. The paper discusses implications and directions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Hernandez
- Department of Psychology, Gallaudet University, USA
- PhD in Educational Neuroscience Program, Gallaudet University, USA
| | - Thomas E Allen
- PhD in Educational Neuroscience Program, Gallaudet University, USA
- Science of Learning Center on Visual Language and Visual Learning, Gallaudet University, USA
| | - Donna A Morere
- Department of Psychology, Gallaudet University, USA
- PhD in Educational Neuroscience Program, Gallaudet University, USA
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20
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Hussein D, D'Alessandro HD, Batuk MÖ, Ekhwan A, Sennaroğlu G. Views of Syrian Mothers in Ankara on Infant Hearing Loss: Cross-sectional Survey. Matern Child Health J 2022; 26:2247-2253. [PMID: 36065040 PMCID: PMC9444090 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-022-03488-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Mothers’ awareness of hearing loss, its risk factors, and available detection and intervention choices have been well known to play an essential role in the early detection and intervention of hearing loss. Objective To investigate the knowledge and attitude of Syrian mothers toward infant hearing loss, early identification, and intervention. Methods The “Maternal Views on Infant Hearing Loss” questionnaire was adapted and translated into Arabic and then administered to 100 Syrian mothers living in different neighborhoods in Ankara within the age range of 18–68 years old. The internal consistency for the main domains of the questionnaire was tested by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were used to evaluate the responses. Results The highest level of knowledge about the risk factors was about noise exposure (76%), while the lowest level of knowledge was about jaundice (25%). While 98% of the mothers had a positive attitude toward early detection, 97% of them did not mind the early intervention. Conclusions The present findings showed the need to improve mothers’ awareness about infant hearing loss risk factors, available detection, and intervention. Such results may help in performing programs that aim to increase awareness about hearing loss. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10995-022-03488-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diala Hussein
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | - Merve Özbal Batuk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Amar Ekhwan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gonca Sennaroğlu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Audiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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21
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Leannah C, Willis AS, Quandt LC. Perceiving fingerspelling via point-light displays: The stimulus and the perceiver both matter. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272838. [PMID: 35972921 PMCID: PMC9380947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Signed languages such as American Sign Language (ASL) rely on visuospatial information that combines hand and bodily movements, facial expressions, and fingerspelling. Signers communicate in a wide array of sub-optimal environments, such as in dim lighting or from a distance. While fingerspelling is a common and essential part of signed languages, the perception of fingerspelling in difficult visual environments is not well understood. The movement and spatial patterns of ASL are well-suited to representation by dynamic Point Light Display (PLD) stimuli in which human movement is shown as an array of moving dots affixed to joints on the body. We created PLD videos of fingerspelled location names. The location names were either Real (e.g., KUWAIT) or Pseudo-names (e.g., CLARTAND), and the PLDs showed either a High or a Low number of markers. In an online study, Deaf and Hearing ASL users (total N = 283) watched 27 PLD stimulus videos that varied by Word Type and Number of Markers. Participants watched the videos and typed the names they saw, along with how confident they were in their response. We predicted that when signers see ASL fingerspelling PLDs, language experience in ASL will be positively correlated with accuracy and self-rated confidence scores. We also predicted that Real location names would be understood better than Pseudo names. Our findings supported those predictions. We also discovered a significant interaction between Age and Word Type, which suggests that as people age, they use outside world knowledge to inform their fingerspelling success. Finally, we examined the accuracy and confidence in fingerspelling perception in early ASL users. Studying the relationship between language experience with PLD fingerspelling perception allows us to explore how hearing status, ASL fluency levels, and age of language acquisition affect the core abilities of understanding fingerspelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Leannah
- Educational Neuroscience, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Athena S. Willis
- Educational Neuroscience, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Lorna C. Quandt
- Educational Neuroscience, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Horton L, Singleton J. Acquisition of turn-taking in sign language conversations: An overview of language modality and turn structure. Front Psychol 2022; 13:935342. [PMID: 36003107 PMCID: PMC9393527 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.935342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The task of transitioning from one interlocutor to another in conversation – taking turns – is a complex social process, but typically transpires rapidly and without incident in conversations between adults. Cross-linguistic similarities in turn timing and turn structure have led researchers to suggest that it is a core antecedent to human language and a primary driver of an innate “interaction engine.” This review focuses on studies that have tested the extent of turn timing and turn structure patterns in two areas: across language modalities and in early language development. Taken together, these two lines of research offer predictions about the development of turn-taking for children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) acquiring sign languages. We introduce considerations unique to signed language development – namely the heterogenous ecologies in which signed language acquisition occurs, suggesting that more work is needed to account for the diverse circumstances of language acquisition for DHH children. We discuss differences between early sign language acquisition at home compared to later sign language acquisition at school in classroom settings, particularly in countries with national sign languages. We also compare acquisition in these settings to communities without a national sign language where DHH children acquire local sign languages. In particular, we encourage more documentation of naturalistic conversations between DHH children who sign and their caregivers, teachers, and peers. Further, we suggest that future studies should consider: visual/manual cues to turn-taking and whether they are the same or different for child or adult learners; the protracted time-course of turn-taking development in childhood, in spite of the presence of turn-taking abilities early in development; and the unique demands of language development in multi-party conversations that happen in settings like classrooms for older children versus language development at home in dyadic interactions.
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23
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Shusterman A, Peretz-Lange R, Berkowitz T, Carrigan E. The development of early numeracy in deaf and hard of hearing children acquiring spoken language. Child Dev 2022; 93:e468-e483. [PMID: 35726698 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Most deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) children are born to hearing parents and steered toward spoken rather than signed language, introducing a delay in language access. This study investigated the effects of this delay on number acquisition. DHH children (N = 44, meanage = 58 months, 21F, >50% White) and typically-hearing (TH) children (N = 79, meanage = 49 months, 51F, >50% White) were assessed on number and language in 2011-13. DHH children showed similar trajectories to TH children but delayed timing; a binary logistic regression showed that the odds of being a cardinal-principle (CP) knower were 17 times higher for TH children than DHH children, controlling for age (d = .69). Language fully mediated the association between deaf/hearing group and number knowledge, suggesting that language access sets the pace for number acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca Peretz-Lange
- Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, USA.,SUNY Purchase, Purchase, New York, USA
| | - Talia Berkowitz
- Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, USA.,University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Emily Carrigan
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
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24
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Lieberman AM, Fitch A, Borovsky A. Flexible fast-mapping: Deaf children dynamically allocate visual attention to learn novel words in American Sign Language. Dev Sci 2022; 25:e13166. [PMID: 34355837 PMCID: PMC8818049 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Word learning in young children requires coordinated attention between language input and the referent object. Current accounts of word learning are based on spoken language, where the association between language and objects occurs through simultaneous and multimodal perception. In contrast, deaf children acquiring American Sign Language (ASL) perceive both linguistic and non-linguistic information through the visual mode. In order to coordinate attention to language input and its referents, deaf children must allocate visual attention optimally between objects and signs. We conducted two eye-tracking experiments to investigate how young deaf children allocate attention and process referential cues in order to fast-map novel signs to novel objects. Participants were deaf children learning ASL between the ages of 17 and 71 months. In Experiment 1, participants (n = 30) were presented with a novel object and a novel sign, along with a referential cue that occurred either before or after the sign label. In Experiment 2, a new group of participants (n = 32) were presented with two novel objects and a novel sign, so that the referential cue was critical for identifying the target object. Across both experiments, participants showed evidence for fast-mapping the signs regardless of the timing of the referential cue. Individual differences in children's allocation of attention during exposure were correlated with their ability to fast-map the novel signs at test. This study provides first evidence for fast-mapping in sign language, and contributes to theoretical accounts of how word learning develops when all input occurs in the visual modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M Lieberman
- Wheelock College of Education and Human Development, Boston University, 2 Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA
| | - Allison Fitch
- Department of Psychology, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Arielle Borovsky
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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25
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Hoffmeister R, Henner J, Caldwell-Harris C, Novogrodsky R. Deaf Children's ASL Vocabulary and ASL Syntax Knowledge Supports English Knowledge. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2021; 27:37-47. [PMID: 34788799 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The current study contributes empirical data to our understanding of how knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) syntax aids reading print English for deaf children who are bilingual and bimodal in ASL and English print. The first analysis, a conceptual replication of Hoffmeister ( 2000), showed that performance on the American Sign Language Assessment Instrument correlated with the Sanford Achievement Test-Reading Comprehension (SAT-RC) and the Rhode Island Test of Language Structures (RITLS, Engen & Engen, 1983). The second analysis was a quantile regression using ASL assessments to predict English print abilities. Different ASL skills were important for English reading comprehension (SAT-RC) versus understanding English syntax (RITLS); the relationship between ASL skills and English print performance also varied for students at different English print ability levels. Strikingly, knowledge of ASL syntax was robustly correlated with knowledge of English syntax at all ability levels. Our findings provide novel and strong evidence for the impact of ASL on the development of English literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Hoffmeister
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jon Henner
- Specialized Education Services, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | | | - Rama Novogrodsky
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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26
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Goodwin C, Carrigan E, Walker K, Coppola M. Language not auditory experience is related to parent-reported executive functioning in preschool-aged deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Child Dev 2021; 93:209-224. [PMID: 34633656 PMCID: PMC9293362 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Much research has found disrupted executive functioning (EF) in deaf and hard‐of‐hearing (DHH) children; while some theories emphasize the role of auditory deprivation, others posit delayed language experience as the primary cause. This study investigated the role of language and auditory experience in parent‐reported EF for 123 preschool‐aged children (Mage = 60.1 months, 53.7% female, 84.6% White). Comparisons between DHH and typically hearing children exposed to language from birth (spoken or signed) showed no significant differences in EF despite drastic differences in auditory input. Linear models demonstrated that earlier language exposure predicted better EF (β = .061–.341), while earlier auditory exposure did not. Few participants exhibited clinically significant executive dysfunction. Results support theories positing that language, not auditory experience, scaffolds EF development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Goodwin
- Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.,The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emily Carrigan
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristin Walker
- The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Marie Coppola
- Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.,The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
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27
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Voss J. Family-Centered and School-Based Enhancement of Listening and Spoken Language. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2021; 54:1219-1229. [PMID: 34535277 DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Children who are deaf/hard of hearing, including those from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds, can use hearing technology to develop listening and spoken language successfully if given appropriate support. This is best accomplished by interprofessional teams providing caregivers with family-centered support from early intervention through the school-aged years. This approach is best practice because development of listening, spoken language, literacy, and social skills is most effective when caregivers are the primary communication partners and intervention agents, supported by qualified professionals. Special considerations are needed for families who have low access to services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Voss
- Fontbonne University, 6800 Wydown Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63105, USA.
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28
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Benassi E, Boria S, Berghenti MT, Camia M, Scorza M, Cossu G. Morpho-Syntactic Deficit in Children with Cochlear Implant: Consequence of Hearing Loss or Concomitant Impairment to the Language System? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9475. [PMID: 34574401 PMCID: PMC8471606 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among implanted children with similar duration of auditory deprivation and clinical history, the morpho-syntactic skills remain highly variable, suggesting that other fundamental factors may determine the linguistic outcomes of these children, beyond their auditory recovery. The present study analyzed the morpho-syntactic discrepancies among three children with cochlear implant (CI), with the aim of understanding if morpho-syntactic deficits may be characterized as a domain-specific language disorder. METHOD The three children (mean age = 7.2; SD = 0.4) received their CI at 2.7, 3.7, and 5.9 years of age. Their morpho-syntactic skills were evaluated in both comprehension and production and compared with 15 age-matched normal-hearing children (mean age = 6.6; SD = 0.3). RESULTS Cases 1 and 2 displayed a marked impairment across morphology and syntax, whereas Case 3, the late-implanted child, showed a morpho-syntactic profile well within the normal boundaries. A qualitative analysis showed, in Cases 1 and 2, language deficits similar to those of normal hearing children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that a severe grammatical deficit may be, in some implanted children, the final outcome of a concomitant impairment to the language system. Clinical implications for assessment and intervention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Benassi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Sonia Boria
- Center for the Diagnosis, Treatment and Study of Communication and Socialization Disorders, NPIA, AUSL of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy;
| | | | - Michela Camia
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Maristella Scorza
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
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29
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Terhune-Cotter BP, Conway CM, Dye MWG. Visual Sequence Repetition Learning is Not Impaired in Signing DHH Children. JOURNAL OF DEAF STUDIES AND DEAF EDUCATION 2021; 26:322-335. [PMID: 34017994 DOI: 10.1093/deafed/enab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The auditory scaffolding hypothesis states that early experience with sound underpins the development of domain-general sequence processing abilities, supported by studies observing impaired sequence processing in deaf or hard-of-hearing (DHH) children. To test this hypothesis, we administered a sequence processing task to 77 DHH children who use American Sign Language (ASL) and 23 hearing monolingual children aged 7-12 years and found no performance difference between them after controlling for age and nonverbal intelligence. Additionally, neither spoken language comprehension scores nor hearing loss levels predicted sequence processing scores in the DHH group, whereas ASL comprehension scores did. Our results do not indicate sequence processing deficits in DHH children and do not support the auditory scaffolding hypothesis; instead, these findings suggest that factors related to experience with and/or proficiency in an accessible language during development may be more important determinants of sequence processing abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew W G Dye
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, United States of America
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Fisher EL, Thibodaux LK, Previ D, Reesman J. Impact of communication modality on caregiver ratings for deaf and hard of hearing children. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-CHILD 2021; 11:598-609. [PMID: 34024209 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2021.1916495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Literature on children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) suggests overall increased rates of difficulties in emotional/behavioral and adaptive functioning. However, limitations of this literature include the failure to integrate issues unique to the experience of children who are DHH, such as home and school communication modalities and the consistency of modalities across settings. METHOD This study examined de-identified data from a clinical database. Data included caregiver ratings of emotional/behavioral and adaptive functioning in a diverse sample of clinically referred children who are DHH (N = 177). Caregivers also reported home and school communication modalities (e.g., match, partial match, different modalities). We examined mean score differences between our sample and normative samples and compared functioning across subgroups of children with various home-school communication modality combinations. RESULTS Consistent with the literature, we found overall increased rates of emotional/behavioral and adaptive functioning concerns on parent rating scales. Emotional/behavioral concerns did not differ among children with spoken language match, sign language match, or partial match communication modalities combinations. Within adaptive functioning, communication and functional academics were significantly lower among children with partial match home-school communication modalities. Adaptive functioning did not differ between spoken language match and sign language match groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest possible benefits to adaptive functioning among children who are DHH when home and school communication modalities match, regardless of which modality is used.
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Purcell PL, Deep NL, Waltzman SB, Roland JT, Cushing SL, Papsin BC, Gordon KA. Cochlear Implantation in Infants: Why and How. Trends Hear 2021; 25:23312165211031751. [PMID: 34281434 PMCID: PMC8295935 DOI: 10.1177/23312165211031751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In children with congenital deafness, cochlear implantation (CI) prior to 12 months of age offers the opportunity to foster more typical auditory development during late infancy and early childhood. Recent studies have found a positive association between early implantation and expressive and receptive language outcomes, with some children able to achieve normal language skills by the time of school entry. Universal newborn hearing screening improved early detection and diagnosis of congenital hearing loss, allowing for earlier intervention, including decision-making regarding cochlear implant (CI) candidacy. It can be more challenging to confirm CI candidacy in infants; therefore, a multidisciplinary approach, including objective audiometric testing, is recommended to not only confirm the diagnosis but also to counsel families regarding expectations and long-term management. Surgeons performing CI surgery in young children should consider both the anesthetic risks of surgery in infancy and the ways in which mastoid anatomy may differ between infants and older children or adults. Multiple studies have found CI surgery in infants can be performed safely and effectively. This article reviews current evidence regarding indications for implantation in children younger than 12 months of age and discusses perioperative considerations and surgical technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L. Purcell
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicholas L. Deep
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - Susan B. Waltzman
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - J. Thomas Roland
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States
| | - Sharon L. Cushing
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Blake C. Papsin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen A. Gordon
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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