Mechanisms underlying development of the ability for language learning and reflective thinking

2017 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 15K02694
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Foreign language education
• Research Institution: Keio University
• Principal Investigator: YATABE Kiyomi 慶應義塾大学, 外国語教育研究センター, 助教 (90455410)
• Co-Investigator(Renkei-kenkyūsha): HOSODA Chihiro 東京大学, 大学院総合文化研究科, 研究員 (20578976)
• Project Period (FY): 2015-04-01 – 2018-03-31
• Keywords: 外国語学習 / 認知処理 / 発達

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We used psychological and brain measurements involving near-infrared spectroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging to determine which brain areas are affected by foreign language learning. We have found morphological and functional changes in the right hemisphere, in addition to the areas in the language center. Behavioral results could also help in understanding the different learning paths and provide insights into foreign language education.

Free Research Field

言語学　発達心理学