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RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC— Steve Warren, Ph.D., a professor of Speech-Language-Hearing: Sciences and Disorders and an investigator with the Institute of Life Span Studies at the University of Kansas, will present a seminar titled "LENA: A sensor of richness for young children's early language development," on Nov. 13, at RTI International.
The event will be held from noon to 1 p.m. in the Cox Multipurpose Room at RTI. The seminar is part of the RTI Fellows Seminar Series and is hosted by RTI Chair and Distinguished Fellow Don Bailey.
LENA (for "language environment analysis") is a device that automatically collects and analyzes huge amounts of child language interaction data in any language. Information collected from the device is used to improve a child's speech patterns and enhance child development with early intervention.
At this seminar, Warren will explain how LENA works, highlight recent research discoveries and offer observations for how this technology could change the future of child development on a global scale.
Cumulative early exposure to environments rich in social interaction and diverse vocabulary is among the strongest predictors of a young child's later school success and ultimately their level of adult literacy. In 2004, Warren began working with an interdisciplinary group of scientists and engineers to develop LENA as a way to effectively measure the richness of language learning environments.
Warren's research has focused on communication and language development in children with developmental delays and disabilities. His work has been recognized by career research awards from the National Down Syndrome Congress, the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and the American Psychological Association.
He recently completed a seven-year term as vice chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies at the University of Kansas, and previously served as director of the Institute of Life Span Studies.
The event is open to the public, and lunch will be provided.
