Learning Trajectories in Children with Low Academic Achievement: A Longitudinal Study

• Grant number: 25/15834-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Speech Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Débora Maria Befi-Lopes
• Grantee: Shelly Lagus
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Learning difficulties represent one of the main challenges in Brazil´s public education, affecting children's academic and social development. Low Academic Achievement (LAA) results from a complex interaction between cognitive, linguistic, behavioral, and contextual factors, yet it remains understudied from a longitudinal perspective. This project aims to investigate the learning profiles of children with LAA over one year, analyzing their cognitive, linguistic, academic, and behavioral skills, as well as identifying predictive factors associated with their academic development.The sample will consist of, at least , 80 children enrolled in the 3rd and 4th grades of Elementary School, totaling 160 assessments at two time points, 12 months apart. Participants will be recruited from a public school and a specialized outpatient clinic for learning difficulties. A control group, matched by age and school grade and with no history of LAA, will be included and assessed using the same procedures.Standardized and validated instruments will be used to assess semantic definition skills, phonological awareness, reading, writing, mathematics, executive functions, and behavioral aspects. Statistical analysis will be conducted by a qualified professional. The expected outcomes include a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying LAA and the development of more effective educational and clinical interventions, fostering school inclusion and academic success for students at risk.