Who We Are

Led by Dr. Mandy Maguire, our lab is focused on understanding how children learn language and how the brain processes language in general. Why do children learn languages so easily, while many adults struggle to learn a second language? Why do some children learn their native language more easily than others? What are some factors that might impact language learning and language processing in the brain like being raised in poverty or learning more than one language from birth?These are just a few of the questions our lab is trying to answer. To study the brain, we use a technique called electroencephalography (EEG) that provides a window into what the brain is doing at given points in time. Volunteers wear a cap fitted with sponges that, when moistened, are able to detect brain activity through the scalp. This technology is completely non-harmful/non-invasive and helps to shed light on how the brain responds to different language-related tasks.

Location

Our lab is housed at the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at the University of Texas at Dallas. The Callier Center provides a wide array of clinical services and therapies to individuals with communication disorders, including working with children who have autism spectrum or other developmental disorders, language impairments, and hearing difficulties.As an on-site research lab, we compliment the Callier Center’s clinical efforts by conducting research that aims to better understand the neurological basis of language and language-related disorders. From this knowledge we hope to develop more effective therapies in the future for individuals suffering from communication disorders. Our address is Room A118, 1966 Inwood Road, Dallas, Texas 75235.

Contact Information

Phone: (972) 883-3164
Email: devneurolab@utdallas.edu

Driving Instructions

The Callier Center is located on Inwood Road one block east of Stemmons Freeway (I-35E). The Center is across the street from UT Southwestern Medical Center near Texas Woman’s University. Callier is located in the medical/market center area of Dallas. Our building is at the corner of Inwood Rd. and Southwestern Medical Ave.

Although our address is on Inwood Road the Center does not face Inwood Road. You must turn south on Southwestern Medical Ave. to find our parking lot, which is located on an unnamed street between the Callier Center and Texas Woman’s University facility. You can park in any of the “Patient Parking” spaces.