Language Acquisition Research Articles

Functional reorganization of brain regions supporting artificial grammar learning across the first half year of life.

Pre-babbling infants can track nonadjacent dependencies (NADs) in the auditory domain. While this forms a crucial prerequisite for language acquisition, the neurodevelopmental origins of this ability remain unknown. We applied functional near-infrared spectroscopy in neonates and 6- to 7-month-old infants to investigate the neural substrate supporting NAD learning and detection using tone sequences in an artificial grammar learning paradigm. Detection of NADs was indicated by left prefrontal activation in neonates while by left supramarginal gyrus (SMG), superior temporal gyrus (STG), and inferior frontal gyrus activation in 6- to 7-month-olds. Functional connectivity analyses further indicated that the neonate activation pattern during the test phase benefited from a brain network consisting of prefrontal regions, left SMG and STG during the rest and learning phases. These findings suggest a left-hemispheric learning-related functional brain network may emerge at birth and serve as the foundation for the later engagement of these regions for NAD detection, thus, providing a neural basis for language acquisition.

Task-Based Language Teaching: A Systematic Review of Research and Applications

Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) has gained widespread recognition as an effective approach in language education, emphasizing meaningful communication and real-world language use. TBLT focuses on learners completing tasks that mirror authentic language use, promoting both linguistic and communicative competence. Despite its popularity, challenges in implementation, teacher training, and resource availability have raised questions about its effectiveness across different educational contexts. This systematic review aims to evaluate the research and applications of TBLT, analyzing its impact on language proficiency, student engagement, and instructional outcomes. The review includes qualitative and quantitative studies from various contexts, ranging from primary to higher education, as well as English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) settings. The findings reveal that TBLT enhances language acquisition, particularly in developing speaking and listening skills, and fosters greater learner autonomy. However, successful implementation requires adequate teacher training and institutional support. Challenges such as curriculum alignment and assessment remain significant obstacles in some educational environments. Despite these issues, TBLT consistently promotes higher levels of student engagement and motivation. In conclusion, TBLT offers considerable benefits for language learning, but its success is highly dependent on contextual factors such as teacher preparedness and curriculum flexibility. Further research is needed to explore long-term outcomes and effective strategies for overcoming implementation barriers.

Leveraging AI Tools for Discourse Analysis in Early Childhood Bilingual Education: Enhancing Language Development

The implementation of AI tools in education has become increasingly popular and brought transformative potential, particularly in the field of language education because of its powerful functions on designing immersive and personalized activities and offering real-time feedback. This study explores the role of AI tools in discourse analysis and the impact on enhancing bilingual skills among early childhood students. It investigates two key questions: (1) How do AI tools impact young childrens bilingual skills in early childhood classrooms? (2) How can discourse analysis of AI tools assist educators with bilingual teaching? A qualitative case study, including an in-depth interview with a bilingual educator, reveals insights into the effectiveness of AI tools in promoting bilingual language acquisition and engaging young learners in meaningful and enjoyable learning environment. Furthermore, the discourse analysis of AI tools offers immediate, actionable insights on each students academic performance, helping educators better understand the language learning process and the specific challenges students face. However, considerations and challenges of AI in education, such as privacy risks and misuse, still need to be considered. The findings of this study bridge the gap and highlight the potential for discourse analysis of AI tools in early childhood bilingual education. Further study can focus on exploring other AI tools in bilingual education and conducting long-term research with a large example size.

The Direct Method in Language Teaching: A Literature Review of Its Effectiveness

The Direct Method in language teaching, which emphasizes teaching language through immersion and avoiding the use of the learner’s native language, has been widely used in educational settings for over a century. Its focus on oral communication, everyday vocabulary, and inductive grammar teaching has made it a popular approach. However, debates about its effectiveness compared to more modern teaching methods have persisted, particularly in terms of long-term language acquisition and proficiency. This literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Direct Method by analyzing studies conducted across various educational contexts. The review examines how this method impacts learners’ speaking, listening, and overall communicative competence. By synthesizing both qualitative and quantitative research, the study provides a comprehensive view of the strengths and limitations of the Direct Method. The findings indicate that while the Direct Method improves oral proficiency and listening skills in the short term, it may not be as effective for developing reading and writing skills. Studies show that the method fosters greater student engagement and motivation but may not adequately address the complexities of advanced grammar and academic language. Furthermore, the method’s effectiveness depends heavily on the teacher’s skill in creating immersive language environments. In conclusion, the Direct Method offers valuable benefits for beginner and intermediate learners, especially in communicative aspects of language. However, it requires supplementation with other approaches to develop comprehensive language proficiency. Future research should explore ways to integrate the Direct Method with more advanced instructional techniques for a balanced approach to language teaching.

No Ear Left Behind: Wireless Earbuds for Low-Cost Hearing Screening

Hearing loss is particularly harmful for language acquisition and neuro-development if it is left undetected in early childhood. Newborn hearing screening technologies using otoacoustic emissions (OAE) rely on detecting soft sounds generated by a healthy cochlea. High-income countries like the United States frequently implement hearing screening programs for every child at birth. However, such universal hearing screening is significantly less common in low- and middle-income countries, partly due to the conventional wisdom that the test requires sensitive and expensive acoustic hardware that costs thousands of dollars. In our MobiSys paper[1], we present the first wireless earbud design for low-cost hearing screening. Our hardware-software system reliably performs hearing screening using low-cost acoustic hardware, while being in the form-factor of a wireless earbud (Figure. 1a,b). The earbud hardware is designed to work across a large age range from newborns to adults. By developing low-cost and open-source wearable technology, our work may help address global health inequities in hearing screening by democratizing these medical devices.

Is This (Becoming) a Theory of Second Language Acquisition?: A Commentary on “Complexity and Difficulty in Second Language Acquisition: A Theoretical and Methodological Overview”

Is This (Becoming) a Theory of Second Language Acquisition?: A Commentary on “Complexity and Difficulty in Second Language Acquisition: A Theoretical and Methodological Overview”

Optionality, Complexity, Difficulty: The Next Step: A Commentary on “Complexity and Difficulty in Second Language Acquisition: A Theoretical and Methodological Overview”

Optionality, Complexity, Difficulty: The Next Step: A Commentary on “Complexity and Difficulty in Second Language Acquisition: A Theoretical and Methodological Overview”

Applying Cognitive Linguistics to elucidate the meanings of the particles IN/OUT and UP/DOWN in L2 classrooms

Abstract Cognitive Linguistics offers valuable insights for second language instruction, particularly in enhancing motivated polysemy to facilitate vocabulary acquisition. This paper reports on a longitudinal, classroom-based study and analyses the design, implementation, and assessment of activities inspired by Cognitive Linguistics, elucidating the polysemous meanings of the particles IN/OUT and UP/DOWN. The study involved an experimental group comprising 81 Spanish secondary school students and a control group of 26 students. Following a pre-test/post-test design, participants completed two tests (a gap-fill particle test and a lexical depth test) designed to measure students’ command of polysemous meanings. Despite positive teacher feedback and a perceived increase in awareness of polysemy, the experimental learners showed no statistically significant improvement in the test results. We conclude that a comprehensive approach is required to evaluate learning outcomes, encompassing pedagogical experience, classroom-based research factors, and effective assessment measures.

The blue sky of AI-assisted language assessment: autonomy, academic buoyancy, psychological well-being, and academic success are involved

Artificial intelligence (AI) transforms the educational landscape by radically changing how lessons are taught and students are evaluated. In light of these facts, it is critical to consider learners’ emotional and mental wellness as the building blocks of education. Given these facts, it is imperative to consider learners’ emotional and mental well-being as the fundamental components of education. The key goal of this investigation was to investigate the relationships between learner autonomy (LA), academic buoyancy (AB), psychological well-being (PW), and academic success (AS) in Intelligent Computer-Assisted Language Assessment (ICALA). The current study was conducted on a cohort of 391 students registered in courses at private language institutions in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, who were at the intermediate proficiency level. The following instruments were administered: the Academic Buoyancy Scale, the learner autonomy instrument, the learner psychological well-being, and the academic assessment. Then, to evaluate data and quantify the interaction between LA, AB, PW, and AS, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were applied. The findings underscored the significance of LA and AB in achieving a balance in the PW of EFL pupils, particularly when utilizing ICALA for language acquisition. Additionally, the instructional implications of this study and potential avenues for future research are extensively investigated.

NGHIÊN CỨU HIỆU QUẢ CỦA PHƯƠNG PHÁP TƯƠNG TÁC TRONG PHÁT TRIỂN KĨ NĂNG NÓI TIẾNG TRUNG QUỐC GIAI ĐOẠN CƠ SỞ TẠI TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC HÙNG VƯƠNG

The ultimate goal of foreign language teaching and learning is communicative competence. Speaking holds a particularly vital position in the communication process. For language-specialized students at the foundation level, developing speaking skills is of utmost importance. Among these, interactive methods employed in communicative tasks have a positive impact on the language acquisition process in general and speaking skills in particular. From the perspective of applied linguistics, this study employs scientific experimentation to demonstrate the constructive influence of interactive methods on enhancing vocabulary usage, grammatical structures, accurate language forms, attention engagement, retelling, and precise responses of students towards teaching Chinese speaking skills at the foundation level. The research also suggests the application of interactive methods in the development of Chinese speaking skills at the foundation level at Hung Vuong University.

Innovative Approaches to Foreign Language Learning: A Study of Methods Including Duolingo and Beyond

This article examines the effectiveness of various methods of foreign language learning, including digital tools like Duolingo, traditional grammar-focused approaches, immersive learning environments, and the role of music in language acquisition. Through a comparative analysis, the study highlights the strengths and limitations of each method and advocates for a blended approach that integrates these techniques to maximize learning outcomes. The findings suggest that combining digital platforms, traditional methods, immersive experiences, and supplementary tools such as music provides the most comprehensive path to language proficiency. The article calls for further research into the integration of these methods in formal education systems.

Examining the Role of Self-Determination Theory in AI-Enhanced Personalized Blended Learning Environments for Primary School Chinese EFL Learners

It is pertinent to mention here that EFL education in Chinese primary schools has emerged as an important focus of the last few decades due to rising globalization and development of economosaic(Cosmopolitic)eti fluence of China (Wang & Kirkpatrick, 2022; Li et al. , 2023). Today, Ministry of Education, China has laid policies to begin English learning from the third grade; this is an indication that learning should begin early in a childhood so as to learn the language and have the ability to communicate through it (Zhang & Liu 2024). However, many concerns still exist in EFL educational environment such as great class size, less opportunity to interact with real contexts, and curriculum stress on examinations (Chen et al. , 2023; Wu & Johnson, 2024). The literature review of the present study has also stressed on the fact that new strategies are being called for to tackle these issues. For example, Yang et al., (2023) stated that conventional paradigm C loses the interest of young readers and Zhao and Smith (2024) noted that more entertaining and user-centred learning approaches have to be established. In addition, Liu and Wang (2023) pointed out that the present EFL curriculum implemented in Chinese primary schools does not incorporate the sociocultural context and fails to provide authentic language practice to the learners which is essential for second language acquisition.

Aligning Cognitive Development Theory with Whole Language Teaching in Elementary Education: Strategies and Activities for Enhancing Language Learning

This paper explores the role of whole language teaching in addressing the developmental needs of young learners by emphasizing natural, holistic approaches to language acquisition. Drawing on Piaget’s cognitive development theory, the study examines how educators can adapt instructional strategies to align with students' cognitive abilities, fostering both linguistic proficiency and cognitive growth. The integration of technology in language instruction is highlighted as a key trend, providing interactive platforms and digital tools that enhance learning. Additionally, the importance of developing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills is discussed in the context of preparing students for the demands of the 21st century. Recommendations for teacher training programs are proposed, focusing on incorporating whole language principles, Piagetian approaches, and effective technology use. Curriculum development that aligns with developmental psychology is presented as a strategy for creating integrated language learning experiences that promote academic success and personal growth.

Exploring diverse educators’ language ideologies: how lived experiences shape understandings of bilingual education goals

ABSTRACT This study explores the ways diverse educators’ lived experiences shape their understanding of dual language bilingual education (DLBE) goals, responding to calls for research to better understand how educator ideologies impact the equitable implementation of program goals. This qualitative case study highlights the voices of DLBE educators who identify as transnational, Latinx and African American and includes data from classroom observations, interviews, focus groups and pláticas. We offer a conceptual framework that reveals how ideologies related to language acquisition, status, and variation are impacted by teachers’ prior schooling/teaching, institutional positioning and understandings of racialization and cultural identity – sociocultural factors that are co-constructed across micro and macro-level discourse. Our findings suggest that through teaching in DLBE programs and reflecting upon their lived experiences, educators’ ideologies are constantly developing and can shift to foreground equity and center multilingual learners in DLBE programs. Our study has implications for teacher education and professional development that recognizes educators’ diverse experiences (e.g. transnational and/or lived experiences related to race/ethnicity and institutional positioning) to support the ongoing development of ideological clarity that has bearing on the realization of DLBE goals in the pursuit of equity.

A Study on the Influence of Language Environment on English Writing Ability in Universities-Based on the Theory of Second Language Acquisition

Based on the theory of second language acquisition, this study employs a mixed-method approach to investigate the impact of language environment on English writing proficiency in higher education institutions. In the quantitative study, data were collected from 184 students with diverse English language learning backgrounds via the online questionnaire platform "Wenjuanxing" at several universities in China and in-depth interviews were conducted to gain qualitative insights. The findings indicate that the frequency and depth of writing practice, parents' education level, and early exposure to English have a notable impact on English writing ability. Students in the advanced training group demonstrated superior performance due to their increased exposure and practice opportunities, whereas students in the standard study group necessitated more structured instruction and writing practice to enhance their proficiency. The study offers a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for teaching English writing, such as the creation of a rich language environment to facilitate students' English writing abilities.

The Impact of Multilingualism on Second Language Acquisition: A Study of Cognitive and Linguistic Proficiency Among Ethnic Minority Groups

This study investigates the cognitive and linguistic differences in second language acquisition (SLA) among multilingual H'mong and Tay students compared to monolingual Kinh students in Vietnam. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study examined cognitive proficiency, including working memory and cognitive flexibility, as well as linguistic proficiency in English, focusing on vocabulary size, syntactic knowledge, and phonological accuracy. Quantitative data from cognitive and linguistic tests were analyzed using MANOVA, while qualitative data from focus group discussions provided insights into the sociocultural influences on language learning. The findings reveal that H'mong and Tay students exhibited higher cognitive proficiency, particularly in working memory and cognitive flexibility, than their monolingual Kinh peers. However, despite their cognitive advantages, multilingual students faced greater challenges in English vocabulary acquisition, syntax, and phonological accuracy, likely due to structural differences between their native languages and English. The qualitative findings highlight the role of sociocultural factors, including limited access to resources and the desire to maintain cultural identity, in shaping language learning experiences among ethnic minority students. The study concludes that while multilingualism enhances cognitive abilities, ethnic minority students require targeted instructional support to overcome linguistic barriers in SLA. The findings have implications for language education policies, particularly in designing culturally sensitive curricula and improving access to quality English education in rural and ethnic minority communities.

Which one? AI-assisted language assessment or paper format: an exploration of the impacts on foreign language anxiety, learning attitudes, motivation, and writing performance

In recent years, language practitioners have paid increasing attention to artificial intelligence (AI)’s role in language programs. This study investigated the impact of AI-assisted language assessment on L2 learners’ foreign language anxiety (FLA), attitudes, motivation, and writing skills. The study adopted a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design. Divided between an experimental group (receiving AI-assisted assessment) and a control group (receiving paper-format assessment), the participants were 70 intermediate English learners from two intact university classes in Bangladesh. The TOEFL iBT writing section measured writing skills, while the study also investigated perceptions and experiences of FLA, attitudes, and motivation using narrative frames. Thematic analysis of the narrative data showed that AI-assisted assessment greatly raised learners’ motivation, improved attitudes about language acquisition, and lowered FLA. According to quantitative analysis, the pretest writing abilities across groups showed no appreciable variation. Even though the difference was not statistically significant on the posttest, the experimental group exceeded the control group. The results of this study imply that AI-assisted assessments can generate a helpful learning environment, lower anxiety, improve attitudes, and increase motivation, thereby delivering useful information. Future studies should investigate long-term consequences, and further improvements to AI tools should optimize educational advantages—attitudes, motivation, and writing skills.

Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Cybercrime Investigation: Challenges and Future Directions

Computer and social networking whereby criminals use the Internet to propagate criminal activities are some of the major challenges faced by existing policing strategies. Modern-day crimes include hacking into computer systems and stealing money from consumers, ransomware, identity theft cases, and hacking, all of which use the dark web and encryption. In this regard, artificial intelligence (AI) is the most efficient solution for improving the manner of cybercrime investigation. This paper also analyses how AI technologies such as machine learning natural language processing, and deep learning can be incorporated in cybercrime investigations and how they can assist in dealing with difficulties concerning data volume, complexity, and encryption. The advantages of utilizing AI are numerous from pattern recognition to repetitive tasks cutting down the investigation time. However, the paper recognizes that applying AI in business brings legal, technical, and ethical concerns including; privacy, bias, and legal constrictions. This research analyses existing legal frameworks of India, the EU, and the United States while looking at how it would be possible to incorporate AI into cybercrime investigations without violating the rights of a citizen. Further, it reveals infringement and possible bias, as well as unlawful use for violations, and recounts drawbacks related to the lack of resources and expertise that police departments confront. In the final section of the paper, directions for future research focusing on the use of AI in the fight against cybercrime are given in addition to that, the practice of cooperation with different countries, legal regulation of such activities, protection of ethical issues, and training of personnel are described. They are useful in making sure that the levels of artificial intelligence benefits are achieved fully without compromising security and the basic rights of an individual

Self-Regulated Multimedia Cognitive Learning Model: Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition in Adult English Learners

Self-Regulated Multimedia Cognitive Learning Model: Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition in Adult English Learners

Language choice and code-mixing in a longitudinal study of an Estonian-English bilingual child

The input that bilingual children receive influences their language proportions, language development, and code-mixing. Most studies on these topics have included early bilinguals whose input proportions undergo large changes in early childhood and whose parents use the one-parent-one-language family language policy. This paper examines the input-output proportions of an Estonian-English bilingual child over a period of 2.5 years (2;3-5;01) using recorded spontaneous speech from a situation where the input language proportions did not change and where the family language policy was different from the one-parent-one-language policy that is presented in most studies: the family rotated the language they all spoke by the day of the week. Additionally, the child’s code-mixing rate and her MLU scores are investigated to provide an overview of these factors in an unstudied input situation. Lastly, it is analyzed whether code-mixing by older siblings influences the code-mixing rate of the younger sibling. The results indicate that in the early phases of language development the child uses all the linguistic resources available to her, and as her language develops, she responds more in the language of the conversation and code-mixes less. However, there is also a period where the child unexpectedly almost stops speaking in Estonian regardless of the unchanged input. The data shows that code-mixed utterances are the longest, hence supporting previous research findings and indicating that code-mixing is a tool that helps the child communicate better. Code-mixing by siblings does not show any signs of affecting the younger sibling’s code-mixing rate, though a more thorough analysis is necessary. Hence, the results indicate the importance of input and shed light on input effects in bilingual language acquisition in an understudied input situation.