Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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This study explores how the way words are grouped affects memory. We want to know if children remember words better when they are organized by a common suffix (e.g., words ending in "-ing" like "doing," "going," and "talking") or by a shared base word (e.g., words related to "do", like "doing," "done," and "redo"). Understanding this could help inform better ways to support vocabulary and literacy development.
This study is led by researchers from multiple universities, including Idaho State University, Central Michigan University, University of Nevada Reno, and Baylor University, as part of the Structured Word Inquiry Research Vanguard (SWIRV) initiative. SWIRV is a collaborative effort dedicated to exploring how Structured Word Inquiry (SWI)—a linguistically informed approach to teaching spelling and vocabulary—can support literacy development. Through this study, the SWIRV team aims to better understand how the organization of words influences memory and learning outcomes for children.
This study will be conducted in elementary schools and university-based speech and hearing clinics at Idaho State University, Central Michigan University, the University of Nevada, Reno, and Baylor University.
Your child will participate in several language, literacy, and memory tasks, including reading words, spelling, listening to stories, and recalling words from lists.
The total time commitment is less than one hour.
If your child participates through their school, they will be pulled from class at a time that minimizes disruptions to important learning activities.
The day after your child’s first session, we’ll have a quick follow-up activity. They’ll be asked to recall and write down words they saw during the study. This will take just 3 to 5 minutes and helps us understand how well children remember words over time.
Yes, we will use audio recordings to ensure accuracy in the study and verify your child's responses. If you prefer that your child not be recorded, they will not be able to participate in the study.
Children in 4th or 5th grade may participate if they are at or above grade level in reading, speak English with native proficiency, do not have an IEP or 504 plan for a language or learning disability, and have normal hearing and vision for reading and writing activities.
Yes, participation is completely voluntary, and you may withdraw your child at any time without consequences.
Yes, all data will be stored securely, and participants' names will be replaced with ID numbers to protect privacy.
No, your child’s data will only be used for this specific study and will not be shared for future research.
This study is entirely voluntary, and while there is no payment for participation, your child will have the opportunity to contribute to important research on how children learn and remember words. Their involvement could help shape future literacy programs and support other students in developing strong reading and spelling skills!
We’re happy to help! If you have any questions or need more information, you can reach out to the research team at the location nearest to you. Click here to find contact details and learn more about participation in the study.