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Word Learning Laboratory

Why study developmental language disorder (DLD)?

​DLD is a common neurodevelopmental condition that limits language learning, comprehension and expression in both spoken and written modalities. Although it receives less research attention than other neurodevelopmental conditions like autism, dyslexia and ADHD, it is just as likely to impede academic, social and professional success.


We, the clinician-scientists in the Word Learning Lab, are committed to improving the lives of people with DLD by advancing knowledge of the condition. We research the word learning problems associated with DLD and broader issues such as the impact of DLD on everyday function, DLD across the lifespan, the effectiveness of language interventions and disparities in access to services.

The National Institutes of Health fund the research conducted in the Word Learning Lab.


Resources


Participate

If you would like to participate in our research, please contact Nichole Eden at Nichole.Eden@boystown.org. We would love to hear from you!

Our Studies

​The Children's Vocabulary Project
The Children's Vocabulary Project advances understanding of the word learning problems associated with developmental language disorder (DLD).
The Language and Me Project
The Language and Me Project is designed to explore differences in the need for and receipt of language services. We know boys are twice as likely to receive language intervention as girls.