Watch and Learn

Language plays a huge part in learning, and early 'conversations' between parent and child help develop the skills needed for education later on. For deaf children, though, these milestones can be delayed. This deaf boy has cochlear implants to help him hear, and to soak up language from the world around him. They also make him an excellent case for gentle study – what cues do deaf children need when learning new words? Cameras placed on his head watch his eyes from six different angles as toys with unusual names are introduced by a parent. The cameras spot tiny movements in his attention, which, along with what the boy says, suggest when he recognises the new phrases. Analysing a similar mix of data might also reveal learning patterns in youngsters with suspected attention-deficit or autism spectrum disorders.

Deaf Awareness Week 2017 continues until May 21

Written by John Ankers

John Ankers

Writer

A former researcher in systems biology, John is now an online biology tutor and professional coach supporting the wellbeing of scientists and NHS professionals. He's writing, too, of course.

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• Image courtesy of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
• Buckeye Center for Hearing and Development, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, OH, USA
• Image copyright held by the photographer
• Press release from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center