Neural plasticity in speech acquisition and learning

2007 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 147-160 ◽  
Author(s):  
YANG ZHANG ◽  
YUE WANG
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Neural Plasticity ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Key Factors ◽  
Speech Acquisition ◽  
Cortical Level ◽  
Phonetic Learning ◽  
Neural Efficiency ◽  
Brain Behavior

Neural plasticity in speech acquisition and learning is concerned with the timeline trajectory and the mechanisms of experience-driven changes in the neural circuits that support or disrupt linguistic function. In this selective review, we discuss the role of phonetic learning in language acquisition, the “critical period” of learning, the agents of neural plasticity, and the distinctiveness of linguistic systems in the brain. In particular, we argue for the necessity to look at brain–behavior connections using modern brain imaging techniques, seek explanations based on measures of neural sensitivity, neural efficiency, neural specificity and neural connectivity at the cortical level, and point out some key factors that may facilitate or limit second language learning. We conclude by highlighting the theoretical and practical issues for future studies and suggest ways to optimize language learning and treatment.

scholarly journals Características del Aprendizaje Integrado de Contenidos de Educación Física y Lengua Extranjera (Features of Integrated Learning Contents of Physical Education and Foreign Language)

Retos ◽  
2015 ◽  
pp. 120-125
Author(s):  
Celina Salvador García ◽  
Óscar Chiva Bartoll ◽  
Alessandra Fazio
Keyword(s):  
Physical Education ◽  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Learning Theories ◽  
English Learning ◽  
Integrated Learning ◽  
Key Factors ◽  
Abstract Learning

El aprendizaje de inglés se ha convertido en los últimos tiempos en uno de los principales objetivos del sistema educativo, y es clara la propuesta de que la adquisición de esta lengua se lleve a cabo a través de contenidos. La Educación Física (EF), gracias a sus características, parece una de las áreas en las que se apuesta más fuerte por la utilización del inglés como lengua vehicular. Sin embargo, para desarrollar una práctica óptima utilizando esta lengua como vehículo comunicativo, conviene atender tanto a factores propios del aprendizaje de lenguas, como a las peculiaridades de la Educación Física. El presente artículo analiza esas particularidades ligándolas con los aspectos clave del aprendizaje integrado de contenidos y lengua extranjera (AICLE), resaltando el valor que debe otorgársele al lenguaje con el objetivo de favorecer su desarrollo, pero sin olvidar los rasgos propios de nuestra asignatura. Finalmente, para contrastar y valorar la aplicación del marco teórico se presenta una experiencia didáctica empírica que concreta y pone de manifiesto los argumentos esgrimidos. Abstract. Learning English has become one of the main objectives for the educational system and it has been suggested that the learning of this language is done through content. Due to physical education’s characteristics and idiosyncrasy, it seems to be one of the most likely subjects to use English as the language of communication. However, to use it properly, many points have to be considered paying attention to both the peculiarities of physical education and the language learning theories. This paper analyses these singularities linking them with some of the key factors of content and language integrated learning (CLIL). In order to improve English learning, the role of the language is highlighted, but taking account  the fact that physical education’s features must be preserved. Finally, to test and evaluate the implementation of the theoretical framework, we present an empirical and practical learning experience that contrasts and highlights these arguments.

Digital imaging and quantitative image analysis of polymer blends

1996 ◽  
Vol 54 ◽  
pp. 170-171
Author(s):  
Xiao Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Digital Imaging ◽  
Imaging Techniques ◽  
Imaging Systems ◽  
Polymer Science ◽  
Key Factors ◽  
Multiple Imaging ◽  
Quantitative Image ◽  
Digital Imaging Systems ◽  
Multi Phase ◽  
Network Technologies

Polymer microscopy involves multiple imaging techniques. Speed, simplicity, and productivity are key factors in running an industrial polymer microscopy lab. In polymer science, the morphology of a multi-phase blend is often the link between process and properties. The extent to which the researcher can quantify the morphology determines the strength of the link. To aid the polymer microscopist in these tasks, digital imaging systems are becoming more prevalent. Advances in computers, digital imaging hardware and software, and network technologies have made it possible to implement digital imaging systems in industrial microscopy labs.

Tertiary English-majored Students’ Perceptions toward the Role of Pronunciation in English Language Learning and their Practicing Strategies

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 264-279
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
English Language ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
English Language Learning ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Efl Learners ◽  
The University

Accurate pronunciation has a vital role in English language learning as it can help learners to avoid misunderstanding in communication. However, EFL learners in many contexts, especially at the University of Phan Thiet, still encounter many difficulties in pronouncing English correctly. Therefore, this study endeavors to explore English-majored students’ perceptions towards the role of pronunciation in English language learning and examine their pronunciation practicing strategies (PPS). It involved 155 English-majored students at the University of Phan Thiet who answered closed-ended questionnaires and 18 English-majored students who participated in semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that students strongly believed in the important role of pronunciation in English language learning; however, they sometimes employed PPS for their pronunciation improvement. Furthermore, the results showed that participants tended to use naturalistic practicing strategies and formal practicing strategies with sounds, but they overlooked strategies such as asking for help and cooperating with peers. Such findings could contribute further to the understanding of how students perceive the role of pronunciation and their PPS use in the research’s context and other similar ones. Received 10th June 2019; Revised 12th March 2020; Accepted 12th April 2020

Learning Zulu

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark Sanders
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Cultural History ◽  
South African ◽  
Press Coverage ◽  
African History ◽  
African Culture ◽  
The Past ◽  
Correct Form ◽  
Linguistic Purism

When this book's author began studying Zulu, he was often questioned why he was learning it. This book places the author's endeavors within a wider context to uncover how, in the past 150 years of South African history, Zulu became a battleground for issues of property, possession, and deprivation. The book combines elements of analysis and memoir to explore a complex cultural history. Perceiving that colonial learners of Zulu saw themselves as repairing harm done to Africans by Europeans, the book reveals deeper motives at work in the development of Zulu-language learning—from the emergence of the pidgin Fanagalo among missionaries and traders in the nineteenth century to widespread efforts, in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, to teach a correct form of Zulu. The book looks at the white appropriation of Zulu language, music, and dance in South African culture, and at the association of Zulu with a martial masculinity. In exploring how Zulu has come to represent what is most properly and powerfully African, the book examines differences in English- and Zulu-language press coverage of an important trial, as well as the role of linguistic purism in xenophobic violence in South Africa. Through one person's efforts to learn the Zulu language, the book explores how a language's history and politics influence all individuals in a multilingual society.

Methods Of Teaching English Literature For Students Of Graduation In Andhra Pradesh

Think India ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 455-457
Author(s):  
Y.L MARREDDY
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
English Literature ◽  
Thinking Skills ◽  
Critical Thinking Skills ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Teaching Literature ◽  
Universal Language ◽  
Level Of Understanding

Y.L MARREDDY English is recognized as a universal language. Learning English is inevitable in this present global scenario. It also acts like a link language. Especially, English literature enables learners to develop critical thinking skills, helps to discover and enlighten themselves. It is quite challenging task to teachers to teach literature for studentsin non native English countries like India. The role of the language teachers becomes predominant and the methods of teaching literature according to the students’ level of understanding also play a significant role because studying literature assists students’ tohave real time experiences, passion for language acquisition and think innovatively. In this context, it is necessary for teachers to distinct between teaching literature for special purposes or it is used as a resource language for teaching this foreign language. This paper throws light on the importance of teaching literature, several approaches and methods of teaching literature at graduate level. Literature connects the cultures across the world, throws challenges to solve and even to heal some cultures. It really provides an individual space for learners to express themselves and improve competence levels among them. It allows learners to share their participation in the experience of others, strengthens to shape, alter their attitude and meet their expectations.

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