Research Projects: Thinking Speed
Thinking speed, or processing speed, is a term that describes how quickly an individual can mentally process information. Processing speed has been shown to be closely connected to aspects of memory and intelligence, and is sensitive to many kinds of brain dysfunction as well as medication effects.
Traditionally, processing speed is measured by timing how quickly a child can use their hands to do a paper and pencil task. This type of measurement is obviously not appropriate for children with significant motor impairments. In contrast, our processing speed studies examine the length of time a picture needs to be shown in order for a child to accurately perceive it. We control the length of time through a computer program where children respond using assistive technology.
We hope to show that through our adapted techniques, processing speed can be accurately measured in children with significant speech and motor impairments. This will allow for better measurement of a child’s cognitive abilities over time and in response to different medical interventions as well as appropriate planning for education services.
Processing Speed Research is funded by: U.S. Department of Education, National Insitute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research NIH R21 HD057344-01
UMHS Control Recruitment Flyer (PDF)
UMHS CP Recruitment Flyer (PDF)
What is Thinking Speed?
Thinking speed or information processing speed is the amount of time it takes your brain to process simple information. Traditional tests of thinking speed and vocabulary can only be given to children with typical speech and movement, so those tests are not accessible to many children who have disabilities, including children with Cerebral Palsy, because answers must be given by speaking, pointing, or writing the answer. But just because you move slowly, doesn’t mean that you think slowly!
This study is designed to separate physical capabilities from measurement of thinking capabilities. We do this with tests of Visual Inspection Time. Visual Inspection time is measured by the amount of time a person needs to look at something before they can correctly make a simple judgment about what they just saw.
Who can participate in the Thinking Speed Study?
Children, ages 8 through 16 with or without cerebral palsy and their parent or guardian who must be present for the child’s test appointment. Children must have at least a consistent ability to indicate choice (yes and no), an ability to hear spoken instructions, be able to see large pictures on a computer screen, possess a stable medical status, and no history of brain injury apart from the cause of the cerebral palsy.
What will my child do during the research project?
The child will participate in tests of vocabulary and thinking speed in which he/she is given verbal instructions, shown pictures, and makes a choice about the correct response through the use of assistive technology (i.e., pressure switch). We ask a small number of children to take some of the tests a second time for reliability purposes. Children, who are able, will also be asked to speak and point to their responses during their participation. The activities are similar to the types of activities done in regular school or psychological test settings.
While the child is testing, the parent/guardian will complete surveys that ask questions about their child’s quality of life, family history, and the child’s history.
How long does the testing take?
Testing will take up to 3 hours. Additionally, a random group of children will also be asked to return in 2-3 weeks from the date of the original test date for reliability purposes. You will be informed upfront if you have been selected to be invited for a reliability testing visit.
What will I learn from my child’s participation in this research?
Because this is research, there is no guarantee that this will benefit any particular child who participates in this study.
Who should I contact?
To learn more about how your child can participate in the Thinking Speed Study e-mail the research team at ACAL-Research@umich.edu or call 734-936-6604 or 734-763-6189.
If you are interested in Cerebral Palsy research and Adapted Cognitive Assessment Laboratory studies please follow this link to enroll with the University of Michigan’s ENGAGE Registry.
