Using Eye-Tracking to Assess Real-Time Spoken Language Processing in Children

Children with and without hearing loss can struggle to understand speech in noisy environments, which may be due in part to negative effects of auditory maskers (i.e., background noise) on children’s speech processing efficiency. In this project, we are characterizing the development of children’s real-time processing efficiency while listening to speech in different types of noise, as well as comparing these processes in children with normal hearing and children with hearing aids. Findings will inform recommendations for classroom noise management, improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying listening and spoken language difficulties in children with hearing aids, and support the development of clinical interventions supporting complex listening skills in children with hearing loss. 

Longitudinal Pediatric Hearing Health Study

Technology and early intervention for children with hearing loss have improved tremendously in recent decades. However, we continue to see large variability in children’s long-term outcomes. In this longitudinal study, we are examining outcomes related to speech perception, language, listening-related fatigue, mental health, and quality of life among children and adolescents who are deaf or hard of hearing. Our goal is to identify audiologic, educational, and family- and child-specific factors that support improved outcomes. By including a large and diverse group of children, including children with additional disabilities, children who speak Spanish, and children with hearing loss in only one ear, we will ensure that our findings are relevant to a broad range of children.