James McCann

James McCann is an Associate Professor in the Department of Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences at Gallaudet University’s Human Services and Sciences School. He holds an EdD from George Washington University (2018), an MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Gallaudet (2001), and a BS in Communication Sciences from Penn State (1999). His research focuses on language disorders in D/HH children, evidence-based practices for visual language acquisition, and AAC strategies for children with complex needs. He directs the SL3D lab, studying language interventions and parent-child interactions.

• Education: EdD (GWU, 2018), MS (Gallaudet, 2001), BS (Penn State, 1999)

Key research areas include identifying language delays vs. disorders in D/HH children, bilingual (ASL/English) literacy development, and clinical applications of narrative/expository signed texts. He has advised over 20 graduate theses and led grants including Faculty Development Grants (Gallaudet) and Spencer Foundation awards. His work appears in peer-reviewed journals and clinical guides for SLPs.

• Grants: Faculty Development Committee (Gallaudet), Internal Seed Funding, Spencer Foundation

Led the SL3D lab’s longitudinal Early Language Acquisition Project (ELAP), tracking D/HH children’s language milestones. Collaborates with national organizations like ASHA and DCSHA, contributing to clinical practice standards. Teaches courses on language disorders, clinical sign communication, and thesis development.