Events / ILST seminar: Ping Li

ILST seminar: Ping Li

March 1, 2019
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Ping Li
Center for Language Science
Penn State University

 

Understanding the Second Language Learning Brain: Cyber-enabled technologies and computational methods

Human language acquisition provides a powerful experience to the mind and the brain. In this talk, I present an interdisciplinary approach toward the study of second language (L2) from the perspectives of cognitive science, cyberscience, and data-intensive brain sciences. I ask how the learning of L2 shapes the functional and neuroanatomical changes in the brain, and provide evidence from short-term training and longitudinal studies using cyber-enabled technologies and computational methods. Our studies help to identify (a) how neurocognitive changes occur as a function of learning contexts (traditional vs. 3D virtual technology-based learning), (b) how brain changes may capture learning success and effectiveness, and (c) whether these changes may be predicted based on individual learners’ neurocognitive profiles. Findings from our studies provide insights into the understanding of neuroplasticity, individual differences, and knowledge representation.

 

Location: SAIL Room, Levin Building