People Research Participate Directions FAQs

What is it?

The Communication Development lab is part of the Warwick Research with Kids group (Wa.R.Ks), a team of researchers and lecturers from the Department of Psychology at the University of Warwick, who are interested in researching how language develops and how individual’s communicate using gestures and non-verbal cues. The Communication Development lab’s research focuses mainly on the use of gestures and non-verbal cues in learning how to communicate.

How old are the children that participate?

We are typically looking to recruit children from newborn babies to 16 years of age. Occasionally we also study adults to use as a comparison point or to see how the communication development continues into adulthood.

How long does the research take?

We book you in for 1 hour slots, to allow for time for your child to adjust to the new surroundings and for us to go through any questions you may have and some paperwork. The studies themselves typically take about 10 - 15 minutes.

What does a visit involve?

We will provide you with directions to parking or a bus stop close to the lab which is situated centrally on the University of Warwick campus. When you arrive your child will have time to settle in and play with our toys or do some colouring whilst we talk you through the study, answer any questions and help you fill in some paperwork. After the study we will tell you a little bit more about what we are looking for and give your child a certificate of participation.

What happens in a study?

We run a variety of different studies that may involve looking at pictures or videos, listening to sounds or sentences, or describing pictures. All our studies are designed to be fun for children but you or your child are free to stop at any time. You will stay with your child at all times during a study.

Can I bring my other children?

Absolutely – we have a toy-filled reception area that they can play, read or draw in whilst your other child completes the study. We will ensure that an experienced research assistant is available to sibling-sit or you are welcome to bring another adult. There is an accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities close to the lab.

What happens to my child's data?

All our data is anonymised and your child will be identified only with an arbitrary ID number when we store and analyse the data. We will not present results in the way a child can be identified at conferences and in journals. Our participant database with your contact details is kept confidential to Wa.R.Ks group researchers. The lab adheres to the British Psychological Society's ethics standards, and has ethics approval from the University. All the Wa.R.Ks group members have cleared an enhanced DBS check.

Are there car parking facilities available and will it cost me?

We have one car parking slot reserved for families visiting our lab located on the Ground Floor in Car Park 7 (past the Humanities Building and the Sports Centre). The parking is free. We aim to meet you in Car Park 7 and will provide you with a free parking permit for the duration of your visit. If you choose to make your own way to the lab, you are welcome to collect the permit from us and place it in your car accordingly.

How do I get from Car Park 7 to the CD Lab itself?

A member of our team will meet you on the ground floor of Car Park 7. We try to be there about 5 to 10 minutes before the scheduled time. Should you be arriving earlier or later than scheduled please call us on the lab mobile: 07823524617
Alternatively, you can make your own way to the lab by following these directions:
Turn right as you exit the carpark and follow the path straight down. Cross over the road, walk past recycling bins towards the Humanities Studio and turn right down the steps. Walk straight past the main entrance to the Humanities building (on your left) and through the walkway next to the bike racks (facing University road). Turn Right and go down the steps/ramp and through the automated white double doors, next to a sign for the Department of Psychology. Turn left through the brown double doors.