Project description
Bridging the gap in second language speech learning
People learning a second language can hear non-native sounds but struggle to recognise them in spoken words. This disconnect between perception and vocabulary use often hampers pronunciation and communication. With this in mind, the EU-funded SPeLL2 project explores why this happens and how to fix it. Focusing on Portuguese and Mandarin, the project will compare form-focused and meaning-focused training approaches to strengthen the link between what learners hear and how they store words. The study also looks at how memory and auditory processing affect learning success. The overall aim is to design language training strategies that reflect the learner’s unique cognitive profile.
Objective
The proposed research project aims to investigate the divergence between perceptual and lexical abilities in adults’ non-native speech learning. Previous research has shown that good perceptual abilities of non-native sounds do not necessarily facilitate word learning and spoken word recognition among L2 learners at different proficiency levels (e.g. Llompart, 2021; Pelzl et al., 2019; Sebastián‐Gallés & Díaz, 2012). Even for advanced L2 learners who can perceive and identify the L2 sounds at high accuracy, processing of the non-native sounds in lexical tasks can still be challenging. This suggests that lexical representations may not be phonetically detailed until later in L2 learning, eventually leading to pronunciation difficulties and less intelligible communication. In this project, we will explore various training methods such as meaning-focused vs form-focused training, that can potentially bridge the gap between perceptual and lexical abilities in L2 speech learning.
Additionally, we will examine how individual differences (ID) in cognitive abilities, such as auditory processing and working memory, interact with the various training methods and influence L2 speech learning outcomes. Understanding this interaction is crucial because learners with different cognitive profiles may respond differently to training methods, which can help identify personalized learning strategies. We will focus on two typologically distinct languages, Portuguese and Mandarin Chinese, which allow us to investigate both phonemic (segmental) and tonal (suprasegmental) properties in perceptual abilities and word learning.
Our findings will significantly contribute to discussions on how to effectively develop linguistic representations across the lifespan and will have practical implications for tailoring L2 teaching and learning based on learners’ cognitive abilities.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.4.1 - Widening participation and spreading excellence
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-WIDERA-2024-TALENTS-02
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1099 085 Lisboa
Portugal
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.