FAQs for Parents
A large part of our research involves children and we are deeply grateful to the families in the Kingston area for their support. You may have seen us at a local event such as Bump, Baby & Beyond or the Teddy Bear Picnic, or you may have received a phone call or email from one of our volunteers. In either case, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
What is your research about?
Each study in our lab is on a different topic. Generally, our research focuses on issues of language learning and social cognition. How do children (and adults) learn new words? How do they decide what and whom to believe and does this change over development? What information enters into their first impressions of people?
What will my child be doing?
Our studies typically involve games or short movies that are designed to be engaging to children while collecting data relevant to our research questions. For example, to study how children learn words, we may show them a movie about an alien talking. Our priority is for children to have a good experience. We also hope to also increase children’s interest in science and to older children, we always explain in child-friendly terms what the study is about. No obligation exists to complete any study and if you or your child would like to stop, this can be done at any time. Children will receive a small gift (such as a toy or t-shirt) for their participation.
Where is the study?
Although our studies occasionally take place in daycares and schools, we usually conduct our studies in our lab in the Craine Building at Queen's University.
How do I get my child in a study?
We are always looking for prospective participants! Please email us with your child or children’s ages and one of our research assistants will be in touch. Our studies mostly involve children ages 4-10 however other labs in the Psychology Department conduct studies with younger and older children.
Email us if you or your child are interested in participating in a research study!
