Improving Interpersonal Communication
The Department of Speech and Hearing Science, located within the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois at
Urbana-Champaign, offers a broad background in physical, behavioral, and social aspects of human communication. Our programs and
award-winning professors prepare students to enter the critically important fields of speech and hearing science, health, and related
research. Department research laboratories study communication challenges and clinics assist people with communication impairments.
The Department of Speech and Hearing Science is dedicated to improving all aspects of interpersonal communication through research,
programs, and outreach.
Laura DeThorne on Language Learning Differences
In a study that focuses on twins as they progress from kindergarten through fifth
grade, Dr. Laura DeThorne is examining how environmental and genetic factors other than
parental interaction may affect language development. She is also engaged in research
focused on treatment of speech-language disability associated with autism and apraxia
of speech. Dr. DeThorne feels that providing speech-language pathologists with evidence
that guides their treatment decisions will lead to more effective interventions and
preventions in children with language acquisition issues.
Meet Laura DeThorne and
read more about her research.