U of A students Lacey Simpson and Emma Villanueva are researching ways to help children who are deaf improve their spelling ability — a critical skill for effectively communicating through writing.

The two are working with Lisa Bowers, an associate professor in the Communication Sciences and Disorders program, who has ongoing research in this area. The U of A team is collaborating with researchers in the Deaf Studies program at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

"Our overall goal is to make sure learning how to spell is as inclusive and accessible as possible for those who may experience obstacles or difficulties," Simpson said.

The research study involves identifying linguistic processes that are strong or weak in elementary-age children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The researchers analyze spelling tests provided by elementary school teachers.

The team is in the data analysis phase and plans to document its findings and interpretations for publication. Their research will help advance practitioners' knowledge about the spelling abilities of children who are deaf.

"As a future speech-language pathologist, it's so important to understand how these students incorporate phonological concepts and phonetics — the study of speech sounds — to learn how to spell and write in their academic lives," Villanueva said. "Spelling is an essential part of communication and academic success."

Simpson and Villanueva appreciate the opportunity to work with educators at UT Knoxville. "It's beneficial to learn from professionals in other fields, and I love getting to play a role in this research study to complete my thesis," Simpson said.

The two also observe speech-language therapy sessions at various regional clinics as part of the U of A program.

"It's so fascinating to see what I've been learning be brought to life," Simpson said.

Simpson and Villanueva will graduate with bachelor's degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders in May 2022.

Emma has a personal motivation for choosing the field. "When I was much younger, two of my great grandparents survived multiple strokes. Their ability to communicate was impaired and I remember wanting to do something to help," she said. "I learned about speech-language therapy in high school and was made aware that people in this career often work with stroke survivors. I look forward to helping people like my great grandparents learn to communicate effectively again."

Simpson agreed that the opportunity to help others is one of the most meaningful aspects of the field.

"I want to make positive changes in the lives of those I will be working with," she said. "I hope to spread kindness and acceptance."

---

This story is the latest in a series called the Dean's Spotlight, featuring outstanding students in the College of Education and Health Professions. Visit COEHP's online magazine, the Colleague, for more news from the six units that make up the College. Visit the Communication Sciences and Disorders page for more information on COEHP's speech-language pathology program.