UROP Project
computer-delivered, intervention, school age, language, literacy
Research Mentor: Dr. Carla wood, She/Her/Hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Communication Science and Disorders, Communication and Information
Contact Email: carla.wood@cci.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Mr. Jim Ellison
Faculty Collaborators Email: jellison@fcr.org
Department, College, Affiliation: Communication Science and Disorders, Communication and Information
Contact Email: carla.wood@cci.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Mr. Jim Ellison
Faculty Collaborators Email: jellison@fcr.org
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Communication Science and Disorders
Psychology
Special Education
Education
TESOL/Modern Languages
IT/Technology
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 6
Relevant Majors: Communication Science and Disorders
Psychology
Special Education
Education
TESOL/Modern Languages
IT/Technology
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
MAP-R Morphological Analysis Pathway to ReadingThe MAP-R project aims to improve morphological knowledge, academic vocabulary, and reading comprehension of students with or at risk for disabilities including multilingual learners and students who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing (D/HH) through a technology enhanced supplemental instruction focused on bolstering morphological knowledge for word learning using an e-learning platform for delivery. MAP-R provides explicit instruction on morphemes in academic words packaged with rich oral language experiences within supplemental digital instruction to serve as a catalyst of improving morphological knowledge and increasing academic word learning. The 15-20-minute intervention will be implemented three days a week using an e-learning platform. MAP-R is a multi-component intervention that focuses on morphological knowledge instruction, direct vocabulary instruction on a small set of academic words each week, and on-demand Spanish and sign language support. Progress monitoring data on embedded weekly quizzes will be utilized to assess student outcomes and refine successive iterations of the intervention.
Research Tasks: Flexible identification of tasks to individualize depending on your interests and major. Among options, tasks could include:
Data collection in 3rd and 4th grade classrooms in local schools in Tallahassee
Scoring of students' pretest and posttest language assessments
Typing of 3rd and 4th grade students' writing samples
Funded travel to assist with data collection in an elementary school outside of Tallahassee (within Florida)
Interviewing parents who speak Spanish about their child's educational experiences
Data analysis- charting growth across 16 weeks of intervention
Analyses of child language samples using online tools
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Interest in child language development and/or disorders
Spanish language skills are an advantage but not required
Basic technology skills
Internet access
Transportation to local schools is an advantage (if participating in data collection) but not required
Mentoring Philosophy
The research in my lab aims to improve language and literacy outcomes for children from diverse backgrounds including children with differing abilities as well as children from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds.As a mentor, my primary goal is to support my mentees in becoming creative, independent scientists equipped with the skills necessary to excel in their chosen careers. Successful mentorship, to me, is marked by the ability of my mentees to contribute original research to their fields, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and secure positions that align with their professional aspirations. To achieve these goals, I offer guided learning experiences tailored to each student's needs, including hands-on research opportunities, regular one-on-one meetings, and collaborative projects. I provide constructive feedback on their work, model effective research practices, and encourage participation in conferences and professional networks. In return, I expect my mentees to approach their work with curiosity, a strong work ethic, and an open mind. They should actively engage in the research process, communicate their progress and challenges, and take initiative in pursuing their academic and professional goals. I strive to build mentoring relationships based on mutual respect. I aim to be approachable and supportive, especially during challenging times, and I prioritize open and honest communication. My goal is to create a safe and encouraging environment where students feel empowered to take risks and grow. I am committed to demystifying the process and practice of science, making it accessible and engaging for all students.
Additional Information
Here's a link to the children's online portal:https://mapr.fcim.org/