FAQ

What happens when I visit the lab?
The studies are very simple and fun: for a few minutes, while sitting on your lap, your child watches a computer display and listens to words or tones. Our experimenter observes what your child pays attention to by watching his/her eye movements. At the end of the study, your child will receive a book or shirt for his/her participation.

Will my infant be safe?
Yes. All of our studies are completely safe, and you will be with your child at all times.

Where is the lab?
We are on Carnegie Mellon University's campus, in the Margaret Morrison building. If you sign up for a study, we will give you directions by mail, email, or over the phone. You can also visit the Contact Info and Directions page for directions to our location.

How long do the studies last?
The study task lasts only about 5-10 minutes but we request that you plan to be here for 30 minutes.

How many times would I have to come to the lab?
Each study requires only one short session.

When are appointments scheduled?
We can schedule appointments Monday through Saturday during the day.

Is the data collected kept confidential?
Yes. After your visit, your baby's name is replaced with a number. When we publish our findings, no reference will be made in oral or written reports linking individuals to the study.

Who makes sure that your studies are ethical?
Every one of our studies has been approved by Carnegie Mellon's Institutional Review Board. This panel, consisting of University and community members, evaluates proposed studies involving human participants at least once a year. The panel also handles comments or complaints about the studies. If you have any questions about your child's rights as a subject in this study, then contact the IRB Chair, c/o Regulatory Compliance Office, 414 Warner Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, or e-mail irb-review@cmu.edu.

Can I bring along my other children?
Absolutely! Another member of our staff will gladly look after them during your visit. Our lobby is full of toys for them to play with. If you will be bringing other children, please let us know in advance when you make an appointment.

How can I get involved?
If you are interested in having your baby participate in any of our studies, please give us a call at (412) 268-5257 or email babylearninglab@andrew.cmu.edu.