Objective Learning to read is probably one of the most exciting discoveries in our life. Using a longitudinal approach, the research proposed examines how the human brain responds to two major challenges: (a) the instantiation a complex cognitive function for which there is no genetic blueprint (learning to read in a first language, L1), and (b) the accommodation to new statistical regularities when learning to read in a second language (L2). The aim of the present research project is to identify the neural substrates of the reading process and its constituent cognitive components, with specific attention to individual differences and reading disabilities; as well as to investigate the relationship between specific cognitive functions and the changes in neural activity that take place in the course of learning to read in L1 and in L2. The project will employ a longitudinal design. We will recruit children before they learn to read in L1 and in L2 and track reading development with both cognitive and neuroimaging measures over 24 months. The findings from this project will provide a deeper understanding of (a) how general neurocognitive factors and language specific factors underlie individual differences – and reading disabilities– in reading acquisition in L1 and in L2; (b) how the neuro-cognitive circuitry changes and brain mechanisms synchronize while instantiating reading in L1 and in L2; (c) what the limitations and the extent of brain plasticity are in young readers. An interdisciplinary and multi-methodological approach is one of the keys to success of the present project, along with strong theory-driven investigation. By combining both we will generate breakthroughs to advance our understanding of how literacy in L1 and in L2 is acquired and mastered. The research proposed will also lay the foundations for more applied investigations of best practice in teaching reading in first and subsequent languages, and devising intervention methods for reading disabilities. Fields of science natural sciencesbiological sciencesneurobiologycognitive neuroscience Programme(s) FP7-IDEAS-ERC - Specific programme: "Ideas" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) ERC-AG-SH4 - ERC Advanced Grant - The Human Mind and its complexity Call for proposal ERC-2011-ADG_20110406 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme ERC-AG - ERC Advanced Grant Coordinator BCBL BASQUE CENTER ON COGNITION BRAIN AND LANGUAGE Address Paseo mikeletegi 69 2 20009 San sebastian Spain See on map Region Noreste País Vasco Gipuzkoa Activity type Research Organisations Principal investigator Manuel Francisco Carreiras Valiña (Dr.) Administrative Contact Miguel Angel Arocena (Mr.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window EU contribution € 2 487 000,00 Beneficiaries (1) Sort alphabetically Sort by EU Contribution Expand all Collapse all BCBL BASQUE CENTER ON COGNITION BRAIN AND LANGUAGE Spain EU contribution € 2 487 000,00 Address Paseo mikeletegi 69 2 20009 San sebastian See on map Region Noreste País Vasco Gipuzkoa Activity type Research Organisations Principal investigator Manuel Francisco Carreiras Valiña (Dr.) Administrative Contact Miguel Angel Arocena (Mr.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window
