Abstract
Language learning encompasses a complex set of cognitive tasks, among which rule extraction plays a pivotal role. The processing and learning of linguistic dependencies are critical for language acquisition. Specifically, it is necessary to identify the dependencies between pairs of words to correctly acquire a language. Prior research in this field has highlighted the role of statistical learning and prediction-based mechanisms in the process, but the specific impact of attentional mechanisms remains unclear. Some studies have emphasized the role of attention in this process, but certain questions remain unanswered. What is the role of attention in the learning of linguistic dependencies? What influence does attention have on the neural encoding of linguistic dependencies? And what is the role of attention in the generalization of dependencies to other contexts?
This study investigates the neural mechanisms underlying the learning of non-adjacent linguistic dependencies to address these questions. Specifically, we employ behavioral measures and EEG recordings while 38 participants perform a word-detection task across two sessions. Participants listen to structures containing either non-adjacent dependencies (AxC) or no dependencies (XXX), with attention systematically manipulated to create attended and unattended conditions.
The behavioural results reveal a clear role for attention in the learning of linguistic dependencies during language acquisition across both sessions. Implicit measures indicate rule learning with reaction times faster to targets in the context of rule phrases than phases with no rules irrespective of attention, however, greater explicit knowledge if acquired with greater attention. Additionally, significant neural differences emerge in primary ERP components associated with processing and attention, demonstrating distinct neural responses when attention is focused versus when it is not.
Location and Schedule:
- In-person: Bellvitge, Seminar Room
- Online via Zoom: https://ub-edu.zoom.us/j/98079881511?pwd=jTKEzj7nnk6ipucfm6MtraaEnmVYon.1