post
BLOG AND NEWS

Research Roundup | Autism Spectrum Disorder

Apr 6, 2018
 
 

Lindamood-Bell has been involved with research for over 30 years. We actively take part in peer-reviewed studies of our programs and instruction and monitor student results at our learning centers and school partnerships to ensure we maintain our exceptional standard of quality.  We have partnered with such institutions as the University of Alabama, MIT, and Wake Forest University to conduct neurological and behavioral research.

 

The research consistently proves that Lindamood-Bell instruction changes the brain functions underlying language and literacy skills. These brain functions continue to improve after our instruction has ended.

 

We believe all individuals can be taught to read to their potential—including those who have a previous diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

 

Numerous studies examining the effectiveness of our instruction with students with autism have been conducted; we have summarized and included links to several below.

 

Visit our Research & Development site for more information, studies, and references.

 

Summary of Behavioral & Neurological Research—Autism

 

Changes in Intrinsic Connectivity of the Brain’s Reading Network

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychology and Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes conducted a randomized controlled, neuroscientific trial with a group of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) who received 200 hours of Visualizing and Verbalizing® (V/V) instruction.

 

Before and after instruction, subjects’ brains were scanned and administered a reading comprehension test. The figure below shows comparative pre- and post-brain connectivity for the subjects who received Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction. Subjects receiving V/V exhibited significantly greater brain connectivity after instruction than control subjects. Furthermore, researchers found that improvements in reading comprehension were correlated with increases in brain connectivity.

 

 

To learn more about the changes in brain connectivity or to download the article, click here.

 

 

Improvements in Brain Activity in Children with Autism After Reading Intervention

Children with ASD have a unique reading profile where their comprehension often rates below their verbal and decoding abilities. Our results support the potential of targeted interventions to alter brain activation in response to positive gains in treatment. Children with ASD have a different reading profile from other reading disorders that needs to be specifically targeted in interventions.

For more information about this activation of brain activity, click here.

 

The Impact of Reading Intervention on Brain Responses Underlying Language in Children With Autism

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychology and Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes conducted a study using translational functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to study the effect of V/V on sentence comprehension, brain activation, and functional connectivity.

 

Children with ASD typically have weaker connectivity, or underconnectivity, in the areas of the brain associated with language. Before and after instruction, children’s brains were scanned and they were administered a reading comprehension test.  

 

The figure below shows increased brain connectivity between Broca’s and Wernicke’s language areas for the V/V group (thicker blue line) compared to control group (thinner yellow line) during a task of visual imagery sentence comprehension. The thickness of the lines represents the magnitude of connectivity between the two brain areas.

 

 

Click here to learn more about the effect of V/V on Broca’s Area and Wernicke’s area or to download the full article.

 

Watch a video that features lead researcher, Dr. Rajesh Kana, and participating families.

 

 

Exceptional Parent Magazine – The Science of Improved Language Comprehension: Brain Connectivity and Autism Spectrum Disorder

The November 2016 issue of Exceptional Parent Magazine Features an independent study of Visualizing and Verbalizing and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  “The Science of Improved Language Comprehension: Brain Connectivity and Autism Spectrum Disorder,” summarizes the groundbreaking results of a recent University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) study.

 

The article will enable parents, physicians, and education professionals to better understand the relevance of the findings of the study, primarily that deficits in language comprehension can be improved through stimulating and strengthening the connection between the verbal and imaginal centers of the brain.

 

Click to read the full article.

 

Learning Center Results — Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

 

As part of our effort to maintain an exceptional standard of quality, we continually monitor student learning results. At Lindamood-Bell Learning Centers, students receive individualized instruction, using one or more of our research-validated programs. The Visualizing and Verbalizing (V/V)  program develops concept imagery—the ability to create an imagined or imaged gestalt from language—as a basis for comprehension and higher order thinking. The development of concept imagery improves reading and listening comprehension, memory, oral vocabulary, critical thinking, and writing. V/V instruction can address the needs of students who have been previously diagnosed with ASD.

 

On average, students with Autism Spectrum Disorder who received Visualizing and Verbalizing instruction achieved significant improvements in comprehension. They made large (significant) standard score changes on all measures. Their pre- to posttest results were statistically significant on all measures.

 

 

 

Connect with us
🌞 Boost Your Child’s Learning This Summer! 📚
 Looking for a fun and effective way to build confidence and strengthen reading skills? Our Summer Reading Camp offers personalized, one-to-one instruction designed to help kids make real progress in just a few weeks. Available in person or live online! Learn more and get started ➡️ Link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🎧 New Podcast Episode! 🎧
Join parent Melinda as she shares her family’s inspiring journey with Lindamood-Bell. After a personalized learning evaluation uncovered the root of her children's struggles with reading, the right instruction sparked a newfound love for books. Melinda reflects on their summer of transformation, where reluctance turned into excitement, culminating in the "best summer ever." Don’t miss this heartwarming story of how Lindamood-Bell made reading fun, engaging, and life-changing for her kids—listen now at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Now hiring for summer! 
We're seeking energetic, positive individuals to work as clinicians(tutors) in a Lindamood-Bell Learning Center. Join us as we teach students to read and comprehend to their potential! For more information and to apply, follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Discover a school designed to meet your child’s unique learning needs! Lindamood-Bell Academy offers K-12 students a personalized curriculum, expert sensory-cognitive instruction, and a nurturing environment. Whether attending online or in person, students receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
📚 Learn more and get started today! Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🚨 Webinar Alert 🚨
 📅 April 9th, 2025
 ⏰ 11 am PDT / 2 pm EDT
 🔗 Register Now – Link in bio @lindamoodbellofficial
Join Paul Worthington, Lindamood-Bell’s Director of Research and Development, as he dives into what’s been missing from past literacy initiatives and how Lindamood-Bell is making a real impact with proven results.
Don’t miss out—register today!
Lindamood-Bell helps students of all ages and abilities excel in reading, comprehension, and math.
⭐ Personalized one-to-one sessions 
⭐ Available in-person or live online 
⭐ Proven effective for students with challenges that affect learning, including dyslexia, autism, and ADHD
👉Give your child the confidence and skills they need to succeed in school. Learn more and get started today! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🌞 Now Hiring for Summer!
Are you energetic, positive, and passionate about helping students succeed? Join Lindamood-Bell as a tutor (clinician) and make a difference this summer!
📚 What You’ll Do:
 —Teach students of all ages to read and comprehend to their potential
 —Receive paid training in our evidence-based approach
 —Work in a fun, supportive learning environment
🌟 Apply today and be part of something meaningful! View our open positions at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Is your child facing challenges in reading, comprehension, or math? Our evidence-based instruction can help them catch up or get ahead.
✅ Personalized one-on-one sessions tailored to your child’s needs
✅ Available in-person or live online for flexibility
✅ Proven success with students facing learning challenges like dyslexia, autism, and ADHD
👉 Visit our website to learn more and take the first step toward your child’s success!
Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial
📚 Small Groups, Big Impact! ✨
👩‍🏫 For Educators: Small-group instruction allows you to give targeted support, increase student engagement, and tailor lessons to individual needs.
👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents: At Lindamood-Bell Learning Centers, your child can get the same great results at over 40% off individual instruction! 🎯 Our small-group instruction offers high-quality, evidence-based learning at a more affordable price.
Discover why small groups are a game-changer! Read more at the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make a Difference This Summer! 🌞📚
Looking for a rewarding summer job? Lindamood-Bell is hiring enthusiastic and positive individuals to work as clinicians (tutors)! Join our team and help students build essential learning skills in a supportive, engaging environment.
If you’re passionate about education and ready to make an impact, apply today!
View Open Positions - Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎧
In this inspiring episode, we meet Ben, a student whose life was transformed by Lindamood-Bell instruction. Once the kid everyone laughed at during read-alouds, Ben shares his powerful journey of overcoming school challenges and gaining confidence. With Lindamood-Bell’s support, he not only improved his reading and comprehension but also cleared the path toward his dream career in the culinary arts! 🍴✨
Don’t miss Ben’s heartfelt story of resilience and success—tune in now! 🎙️ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Attention, Teachers! 🎓 At Lindamood-Bell, our evidence-based approach helps educators develop their students' essential sensory-cognitive skills, laying the foundation for lasting academic success. Discover how our unique multi-sensory techniques can elevate your teaching and unlock student potential! Link in bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Make an Impact This Summer – We're Hiring at Lindamood-Bell!

Looking for a meaningful summer job? Join our team and help students build learning skills and confidence! We're hiring enthusiastic, positive individuals to work in our learning centers. As a Clinician (Tutor), you'll receive paid training using our proven, evidence-based approach!

📌 Apply today and make a difference!
🔗 View our open positions and get started! Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoodbellofficial.
Experience a school that fits your child’s unique learning needs! 🌟 Lindamood-Bell Academy is a K-12 private school that combines our renowned sensory-cognitive instruction with a personalized curriculum and a supportive learning environment. With the flexibility to attend online or in person, students can thrive in a way that works best for them! 🎓✨ Follow the link in our bio, @lindamoobellofficial.
Request Information

Request Information

When you complete our form, we'll send you to our digital information packet and reach out to you shortly.
You may also call us at

* required

Schedule a Learning
Ability Evaluation

Please fill out the form and we will be in touch to schedule an evaluation.

* required