Project Building Awareness and Understanding of Aphasia Program DUIRI - Discovery Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Research Internship Term Spring 2026 Status Accepted Research Area Global Health Description This interdisciplinary project is focused on creating a program to educate healthcare workers and community members about aphasia, a language disorder often caused by stroke or brain injury. Aphasia affects millions of people, yet many professionals and caregivers lack the tools and knowledge to support those living with it. As a student on this project, you’ll work with a speech pathologist, an engineering educator, and possibly some individuals with aphasia while helping to: • Develop the material to turn into a learning platform. • Research existing material and ways to provide effective instruction to health care workers and community members • Write a conference paper on the research topic. This is a hands-on opportunity to contribute to inclusive health education while gaining experience in design, outreach, and educational material development. Your work will contribute to a more informed and compassionate community. Supervisor Anne M Lucietto Mentor Type of work required Undergraduate students involved in this project will contribute to developing educational materials to increase awareness and understanding of aphasia among healthcare professionals and community members. Their work will include researching best practices for teaching non-specialists about communication disorders, designing visual aids and digital resources, assisting in the planning and facilitating community workshops, and collaborating with individuals with aphasia to ensure materials are inclusive and representative. Students will also support the creation of digital storytelling content and participate in documenting project outcomes through presentations or conference papers, gaining valuable experience in interdisciplinary research, outreach, and inclusive health education. Websites https://aphasia.org/
acrm.org
https://www.vohaphasia.org/
Qualifications Undergraduate students interested in joining this project should have a strong interest in health communication, inclusive education, and solid written and verbal communication skills. They should be comfortable working in interdisciplinary teams and engaging respectfully with individuals affected by aphasia. Basic research abilities, digital literacy (e.g., using tools for creating visual or multimedia content), and a willingness to participate in community outreach are essential. Prior experience in education, outreach, or media production is helpful but not required—enthusiasm, empathy, and a commitment to learning are key. Credit Hours 0 Weekly Hours 7 (estimated)