Language Learning Research Articles

Language anxiety mediates the link between Agreeableness and self-perceived foreign language skills

The influence of personality, though overt in the mother tongue, may not be easily detected in foreign language (FL) learning, due to the change of language obscuring the clarity of universally observable influences. Hence, the research on the relationship of the personality trait of Agreeableness with FL attainment has not rendered reliable results. Consequently, the main aim of this research was to expose the role of Agreeableness in shaping self-perceived FL skills, considering the explanatory role of language anxiety. The participants were 590 secondary grammar school students (383 females and 207 males). The results of the mediation analysis revealed that the significant positive relationship between Agreeableness and self-perceived levels of FL skills is cancelled by the mediation of language anxiety. It follows that high levels of this negative emotion may destroy the agreeable learner’s estimation of their FL abilities by drawing their attention away from the importance of positive social contacts with peers and teachers, fuelled by the social character of the FL learning process. Thus, the influence of the characteristics embedded in Agreeableness, such as getting along with others in a group, lose their importance when language anxiety, ubiquitous in the FL process, comes into play.

Blurred lines of participation: nexus analytical tools for reflecting on the roles of researchers and participants in change-oriented research projects

Abstract This article discusses nexus analysis (NA) as a research strategy that provides specific tools for reflecting on the roles of researchers and participants in participatory research. While many research traditions use participatory methods and problematise what it means to participate in research, thus far the potential of nexus analytical concepts as tools to mediate such a reflection has not been discussed explicitly. In order to illustrate how NA promotes such reflections, we draw on four linguistic projects in multilingual settings that deal with (1) preservice teachers’ learning to design for language learning in hybrid environments on a university course, (2) plurilingual and collaborative teaching approaches to writing in language classrooms in secondary schools, (3) language socialisation of migrant mothers, and (4) family language policy in single-parent families. With this article, we demonstrate how the nexus analytical conceptual tools of ‘zone of identification’, ‘historical body’ and ‘interaction order’ facilitate reflection upon the researcher’s participatory engagement in various stages of the research process. We show that the lines between the roles of researchers and participants are blurry, in particular in research projects that focus on introducing social change. Additionally, we highlight the importance of reflecting on power relations between researchers and participants and how control over project direction and decisions can impact the representation and involvement of community members.

Effect of antipsychotic on mismatch negativity amplitude and evoked theta power in drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia

BackgroundRecurrent observations have indicated the presence of deficits in mismatch negativity (MMN) among schizophrenia. There is evidence suggesting a correlation between increased dopaminergic activity and reduced MMN amplitude, but there is no consensus on whether antipsychotic medications can improve MMN deficit in schizophrenia.MethodsWe conducted clinical assessments, cognitive function tests, and EEG data collection and analysis on 31 drug-naïve patients with schizophrenia. Comprehensive evaluation tools such as PANSS and MCCB. MMN amplitude was analyzed by event-related potential (ERP) approaches, evoked theta power was analyzed by event-related spectral perturbation (ERSP) approaches.ResultsOur findings indicate that antipsychotic treatment significantly improved clinical symptoms, as evidenced by reductions in PANSS positive, negative, general symptoms, and total scores (all p < 0.001). Cognitive function improvements were observed in language learning, working memory, and overall MCCB scores (p < 0.05), although other cognitive domains showed no significant changes. However, no significant improvements were noted in MMN amplitude and evoke theta power after four weeks of antipsychotic treatment (p > 0.05).ConclusionThese results suggest that while antipsychotic medications effectively alleviate clinical symptoms, their impact on MMN amplitude and evoke theta power deficit is limited in the short term. Moreover, the amelioration of cognitive impairment in individuals with schizophrenia is not readily discernible, and it cannot be discounted that the enhancement observed in language acquisition and working memory may be attributed to a learning effect. These findings underscore the complexity of the neurobiological mechanisms involved and highlight the need for further research to optimize individualized treatment strategies for schizophrenia.Trial RegistrationChiCTR2000038961, October 10, 2020.

Investigating the Efficiency of the Rotation Model in Improving First-Year Undergraduate ESL Learners’ Writing: A Quasi-Experimental Study

The present study uses a quasi-experimental design to assess the effectiveness of the Rotation Model (RM) on English as a Second Language (ESL) learners’ writing errors among undergraduate students. Few studies have focused on ESL learners' writing errors in inflectional suffixation. To address this gap, the current study investigates the effect of the Rotation Model on ESL learners' writing errors in inflectional suffixation within the Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) framework. The study has collected data from 132 participants. They were divided into two groups. The first group serves as the experimental group (N=66). The experimental group undergoes an intervention through the Rotation Model to improve English writing. The second group is the Control group (N=66). The control received instruction through the grammar-translation method.) Data were collected using pretests and posttests from both groups on two different pictures. The data were analyzed using paired t-tests on SPSS. The analysis revealed that the ESL learners in the experimental group improved their writing by minimizing errors related to inflectional suffixation more than the control group. These findings suggest that the Rotation Model effectively enhances the accuracy of ESL learners' use of inflectional suffixes. The implications of these results underscore the potential of RM as a superior instructional approach over traditional methods in ESL contexts, particularly for complex grammatical structures such as inflectional suffixation.

A mixed-method concurrent transformative study of metadiscourse markers employed by L2 speakers: does proficiency level matter?

The current study explored and compared the employment of interactive and interactional metadiscourse markers (MDMs) by the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) speaking test takers at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. To conduct this discourse analysis research, a mixed-methods approach with concurrent transformative design was employed. In the quantitative phase, the frequency of MDMs was calculated and compared, while in the qualitative phase, the variety of MDMs was analyzed. The data comprised a total of 36 YouTube videos on the test takers’ performance in part 3 of the IELTS speaking test at different band scores. The IELTS speaking band scores were converted into Common European Framework Reference (CEFR) levels using a converting scale, and the videos were transcribed to be analyzed. The results showed a level-by-level increasing trend in MDM use from beginner to advanced level. Moreover, the highly proficient L2 speakers used a wider range and a larger variety of MDMs in their discussions. The comparison between interactional and interactive MDMs also revealed that L2 speakers, at all proficiency levels, use the former considerably more than the latter. The findings of this study have significant pedagogical implications for language assessment, teaching, and learning, which are discussed in the discussion section in detail.

Measuring the Connection Between Open Innovation, Dynamic Capabilities, and LinkedIn in Tech-Based Companies

AbstractOrganizations face challenges in acquiring the necessary expertise and dynamic capabilities (DCs) to rapidly develop products and services due to the current technological environment. Open innovation (OI) offers greater flexibility by enabling cooperation with external partners and motivating personnel to adopt new business approaches. Social media can play a crucial role in this strategy, providing valuable information that can enhance the performance of innovation projects by accessing market insights and innovative technical solutions. The article aims to analyze how social media and OI strategy, integrated with DCs, can enhance business opportunities and challenges. This research proposes an analytical framework contributing to literature and theory on using social media analysis to gauge innovation strategy implementation and contrast it with DC theory. It provides a comprehensive framework addressing essential characteristics to navigate changing scenarios by using an innovative method (netnography) to understand and measure companies’ interaction on social media, utilizing primary data (surveys on openness to innovation) and secondary data (LinkedIn data analyzed through machine learning and natural language processing). The empirical section of the paper quantifies the strategic advantages of OI and DCs with a focus on eight innovative multinational tech-based corporations, analyzing their “degree of openness” and adaptability. Organizations that are more open and accumulate integrated knowledge gain competitive advantages, enhancing their ability to innovate, coordinate, rapidly market, and respond to market changes, demonstrating the development of DC alongside OI. Managerial implications relate to the need to match OI strategy with DCs associated with social media.

Using machine learning and natural language processing in triage for prediction of clinical disposition in the emergency department

BackgroundAccurate triage is required for efficient allocation of resources and to decrease patients’ length of stay. Triage decisions are often subjective and vary by provider, leading to patients being over-triaged or under-triaged. This study developed machine learning models that incorporated natural language processing (NLP) to predict patient disposition. The models were assessed by comparing their performance with the judgements of emergency physicians (EPs).MethodThis retrospective study obtained data from patients visiting EDs between January 2018 and December 2019. Internal validation data came from China Medical University Hospital (CMUH), while external validation data were obtained from Asia University Hospital (AUH). Nontrauma patients aged ≥ 20 years were included. The models were trained using structured data and unstructured data (free-text notes) processed by NLP. The primary outcome was death in the ED or admission to the intensive care unit, and the secondary outcome was either admission to a general ward or transferal to another hospital. Six machine learning models (CatBoost, Light Gradient Boosting Machine, Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Extremely Randomized Trees, and Gradient Boosting) and one Logistic Regression derived from triage level were developed and evaluated using EPs’ predictions as reference.ResultA total of 17,2101 and 41,883 patients were enrolled from CMUH and AUH, respectively. EPs achieved F1 core of 0.361 and 0.498 for the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. All machine learning models achieved higher F1 scores compared to EPs and Logistic Regression derived from triage level. Random Forest was selected for further evaluation and fine-tuning, because of its robust calibration and predictive performance. In internal validation, it achieved Brier scores of 0.072 and 0.089 for the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively, and 0.076 and 0.095 in external validation. Further analysis revealed that incorporating unstructured data significantly enhanced the model’s performance. Threshold adjustments were applied to improve clinical applicability, aiming to balance the trade-off between sensitivity and positive predictive value.ConclusionThis study developed and validated machine learning models that integrate structured and unstructured triage data to predict patient dispositions, distinguishing between general ward and critical conditions like ICU admissions and ED deaths. Integrating both structured and unstructured data significantly improved model performance.

Bridging AI Innovation and Cybersecurity: Generative AI's Contribution to NIS2 Compliance

The digital world is changing quickly. One big area of focus is how artificial intelligence (AI) fits in with cybersecurity. New rules, like the NIS2 Directive, are pushing organizations to keep their systems secure. This research looks at how generative AI can help meet those safety standards. More companies are using generative AI for things like data creation and risk assessment. This gives them a chance to improve their security practices. We explore how AI tools, like machine learning and natural language processing, can help find weaknesses, predict threats, and respond to incidents. This way, companies can follow the tough rules set by NIS2. We analyze how AI is currently used in cybersecurity. The goal is to share best practices for using these technologies well. We also address the challenge of keeping new tech secure. In the end, we want to add to the conversation about AI and cybersecurity. We give advice for policymakers and business leaders on how to use generative AI as a smart tool for both innovation and meeting NIS2 requirements. This study highlights how generative AI can help improve cybersecurity while also fulfilling regulatory needs in today's tricky digital landscape.

DEVELOPING ENGLISH MATERIALS WITH ISLAMIC CONTENT THROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL, PEDAGOGICAL AND CONTENT KNOWLEDGE APPROACH

The integration of technology in English teaching materials is essential to meet the growing demands of modern learners including those who learn in Islamic educational contexts. This study aimed to (1) identify the English learning needs related to Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge (TPACK); (2) develop an English language textbook based on the TPACK approach; and (3) evaluate its suitability for use in Islamic higher education. Employing the Research and Development (R&amp;D) framework by Gall et al. (2003), the study was conducted in seventh phases: research and data collection, planning, preliminary product development, preliminary field testing, product revision, main field testing, and final product revision. The participants were 77 students from three Islamic higher education institutions in Lampung, Consist of 20 students from IAI Agus Salim, 30 students from IAIN Metro, and 27 students from IAI Ma’arif Metro.The subject in this research are expert jugment and user. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. The data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Expert and user evaluations of the developed textbook, Basic English, demonstrated its good quality and effectiveness for use in Islamic higher education, with minor revisions recommended for optimization. The findings imply that the integration of the TPACK framework into textbook development can enhance the quality of English language learning in Islamic higher education. It is concluded that the textbook is suitable for use as an English Material in the learning process.

Tokenization of Political Texts in BERT Models Using ICF+ Ontologies

The design of machine learning language models, as well as their ensembles, used in complex analytics of news texts of domestic and Western electronic media is considered. An example of software implementation of a new language neural network model with problem-oriented ontological tokenization is given. The language used as tools is Python v.3.10, Anaconda v.2.1. The effectiveness of the approach in comparison with the best foreign analogues is confirmed by a series of experiments using the example of classifying news articles according to their ideological orientation into Western and English-language Russian ones.

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW ON FLT METHODOLOGY

Rapid changes in various spheres of the world and in the field of education in particular make the role of foreign language teaching and learning of paramount significance. In this regard, the study of the recent developments in the methods of foreign language teaching is not only crucial but also necessary, as sharing information is commonly implemented through language. The present research is meant to provide a comprehensive overview of the historical developments and an in-depth view of the latest advancements in foreign language teaching from both theoretical and practical perspectives with a focus on the use of innovative teaching strategies, approaches, styles and technology integration to enhance foreign language learning and teaching. This article is also aimed at shedding light on the importance of considering the requirements and needs of today’s learners when choosing the appropriate methods of teaching by teachers. Herein it is of primary concern to take into account the fact that due to manifold developments in different fields of human activity, language teaching undergoes different changes and requires new methods and approaches. In addition to all these factors, FL teaching and learning should be directed to the enhancement of intercultural competence, as it can help learners develop a more open-minded attitude towards different cultures. This work particularly highlights the necessity of changing the roles of FL teachers that reflect a shift towards a more learner-centered and technology-enhanced approach to language teaching and learning. These new roles are aimed to foster learner autonomy and critical thinking skills, to engage learners in active learning, and to create a positive learning environment. They also promote collaborative interactions among learners, recognizing and addressing their needs by providing learners with constructive feedback, authentic and varied language input.

Analysis of cellular and molecular biomechanical correlates in emotional response monitoring via biosensors and their impact on teaching strategy modification in Japanese language instruction

Emotion states have a significant impact on language acquisition and learning outcomes. In Japanese language teaching, traditional strategies often overlook students' emotional responses, which can lead to stress and disengagement, affecting performance. To address this, the study focuses on incorporating bio-sensor-based emotional reaction monitoring. At the cellular and molecular biomechanical level, emotions can trigger a cascade of physiological changes. For example, stress can activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol. These hormonal changes can affect neurotransmitter systems and cellular signaling pathways in the brain, influencing cognitive functions related to language learning. During Japanese language sessions, teachers' emotional states are recorded using surveys and EEG monitoring. The EEG signals can provide insights into the neural activity and related cellular and molecular events. Participants are divided into experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, teaching strategies are adjusted based on emotional monitoring data. The Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model classifier is used for EEG signal feature selection to create a stress level identification model. This model can help in understanding the cellular and molecular correlates of stress during teaching. Statistical analysis evaluates the relationship between EEG features and stress levels, as well as the effectiveness of adjusted teaching strategies. Tailored teaching strategies based on these insights can enhance teacher resilience and improve the classroom environment. By considering the cellular and molecular biomechanical aspects of emotions, the study aims to improve teacher well-being and student learning experiences, leading to more effective Japanese language instruction.

AI-Driven Chatbots as Language Tutors: Enhancing Written Proficiency in ESL

Purpose: This research study examines the viability of using Artificial Intelligence chatbots for increasing written performance of ESL students. Methodology: The research employs a secondary qualitative approach, synthesizing existing literature to identify themes on chatbot applications in language learning. Findings: As it was found out, the use of chatbots enables learners to get prompt feedback within a session, which helps in correcting the mistakes made and strengthening the applied language learning and acquisition rules and strategies. However, some of the disadvantages include; lack of ability to differentiate culture when giving feedback and some difficulties in maintaining learner’s attention over a long-term basis. Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice This study shows the ability chatbots have in decreasing learner anxiety and increasing confidence in writing. It is also noted within this study that additional refinement is needed in AI responsiveness to bring chatbots closer to being contextually and culturally aligned with diverse learners. Hence, the study contributes to the discourse on the implementations of cutting-edge technologies into enhancing written proficiency in ESL and calls for further developments of AI-powered systems to tackle challenges surfaced in the ESL teaching and learning processes.

Policy brief: Improving national vaccination decision-making through data

Life course immunisation looks at the broad value of vaccination across multiple generations, calling for more data power, collaboration, and multi-disciplinary work. Rapid strides in artificial intelligence, such as machine learning and natural language processing, can enhance data analysis, conceptual modelling, and real-time surveillance. The GRADE process is a valuable tool in informing public health decisions. It must be enhanced by real-world data which can span and capture immediate needs in diverse populations and vaccination administration scenarios. Analysis of data from multiple study designs is required to understand the nuances of health behaviors and interventions, address gaps, and mitigate the risk of bias or confounding presented by any single data collection methodology. Secure and responsible health data sharing across European countries can contribute to a deeper understanding of vaccines.

(Ne)prijazni zmaji v službi polonistične ekoglotodidaktike

The article focuses on the Polish cultureme of the Vistula River as defined by Maciej Rak as well as the ecoglottodidactic educational potential resulting from the juxtaposition of the Polish legend of the Wawel dragon and the Slovenian legend of the dragon and the Argonauts. The selected folk texts become a stimulus for conversations with students about the Vistula and the Sava and Ljubljanica rivers flowing through Slovenia. The text follows the postulates of environmental humanities, promoting a non-anthropocentric view of the world as well as intercultural and outdoor education. The theoretical reflection is complemented by a proposal of an ecological field game, titled “In the footsteps of centuries-old dragons”, based on an aquatic theme and adapted to the needs of Polish language learners at B1-B2 level. The use of information and communication technology such as QR codes, interactivity and digital flipbooks ensures the attractiveness of educational activities and allows correlating the teaching of a foreign/second or heritage language with the objectives of sustainable development.

Unveiling the “Whys” of Japanese Third-age Learners’ English Language Proficiency

Japanese third-age English language learners, though growing, are still an under-researched demographic. Grounded on the quantitative results of Japanese third-age learners' English language proficiency (ELP), which is B1 on average, this descriptive-qualitative study explored why the participants got certain levels of ELP. Using the maximum variation sampling, the researchers chose five third-aged Japanese participants from the five cities of Aichi, Japan. The findings reveal two significant themes: motivational factors (with three sub-themes: personal interest, social engagement, and personal enrichment) and factors affecting ELP (with four sub-themes: dynamics of sex and ELP, dynamics of age and ELP, dynamics of education and ELP, dynamics of time and ELP), encourage the examination of learning a language as a means to greater autonomy, cultural sensitivity, and an understanding of the global community. It provides valuable insights for teachers or curriculum designers to improve EFL programs for third-age learners, enhancing accessibility, interest, and effective language acquisition.

Exploring Language Transfer of Learning French as a Second Foreign Language under the Theory of Trilingual Acquisition

Chinese universities provide courses in learning French as second language to undergraduate English majors. French plays an important role in the professional courses for undergraduate English majors as a choice for second foreign language courses. Based on the trilingual acquisition theory, this study focuses on the phenomenon of language transfer in learning French as a second language from the perspective of learners. Through the research and analysis of the phenomenon of the transfer of English majors' second foreign language, the influential factors of the transfer of English majors' second foreign language are obtained. Meanwhile, through the empirical research of English majors' second-foreign language French learning, the influence of language transfer on the second foreign French learning has been summarized. In addition, the current situation and obstacles to English majors' second foreign language learning are studied and some learning suggestions are given. Finally, the research results, limitations, and prospects are listed.

How Chinese Nurses Cope With Acculturation Challenges in Japan: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

Chinese nurses in Japan face difficulties owing to differences in language, interpersonal behaviors, and nursing roles. This study examined how Chinese nurses in Japan cope with acculturation challenges. This study employed a qualitative descriptive design using individual semi-structured interviews with 10 Chinese nurses. Thematic content analysis was performed. Chinese nurses performed their tasks despite language barriers. Furthermore, they behaved according to Japanese social norms and adjusted their perceptions by focusing on the favorable aspects of different nursing roles. They used the same approach to overcome the psychological stress due to these differences. They learned these coping strategies through interactions with Japanese individuals in work settings. Providing support for learning language expression, behavior, and family nursing in accordance with Japanese social norms could facilitate Chinese nurses' adjustment. Moreover, a deeper understanding of each other's cultures is crucial for a successful cross-cultural collaboration.

Popular Cultural Texts (Film, Tv Shows) in Shaping Language Learners' Identities and Attitudes Towards the Target Language Culture: an Approach to Advancing SDG 4 - Quality Education

Objective: This study is to investigate the ways in which popular culture texts (film, television shows) shape language learners’ identities and attitudes towards the target language culture. The study aims to explore how movies and television shows influence and shape language learners' identities and attitudes toward the target culture. Theoretical Framework: The main concepts and theories are based on Geert Hofstede’s Onion Culture Model. This model provides a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Methods: This study uses a qualitative research approach, using secondary content analysis to build a model of learners’ attitudes and identities, and then presents the results obtained from the analysis of this model. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that target cultural values have a significant impact on learners’ attitudes, resulting in both favorable and unfavorable impacts on cultural immersion. These findings highlight the important role of popular culture texts in motivating language learners and shaping their attitudes and identities. Research implications: This study investigates the influence of films as well as television shows on culturally relevant foreign language teaching and learning activities. Popular culture texts play a crucial role in promoting cultural awareness and molding the attitudes and identities of learners. It contributes to revealing an approach to advancing SDG 4—Quality Education. Originality/Value: The study confirms that popular culture materials in language instruction can enhance learners’ cultural awareness and the overall language acquisition process. This study also demonstrates the use of popular culture texts in shaping language learners’ cultural and identity.

A task-based needs analysis of primary school-aged children with migrant or refugee backgrounds in Austria

Abstract In this study, we report on a task-based needs analysis (TBNA) for primary school-aged newcomers to Austria. 31% of Austria’s primary school students learn German as L2 and thus a systematic analysis of their language learning needs is crucial. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and a survey was distributed. Results show 38 crucial target tasks for social and academic integration and their respective rankings regarding perceived frequency and the need for training. Triangulation of multiple sources and methods facilitated the identification of target tasks in various life domains and the development of detailed task descriptions along multiple task dimensions. Collectively, the results provide a basis for task selection, task sequencing, and the development of a meaningful syllabus for refugee/migrant populations at the primary school level in Austria.