Nonbinary Pronoun Processing: L1 vs L2
This is my current line of work for my Bachelor of Philosophy in Neurolinguistics thesis. It seeks to answer the following questions, broadly:
- How does the neurolinguisitc processing of nonbinary pronoun constructions vary between L1 and L2?
- Is the difference in neural response reflected in behavioral metrics?
- Are variations in processing these constructions explained by individual difference variables?
This project teaches native English speakers a small subset of French grammar and vocabulary. Participants then interact with French and English stimuli containing cisgender, nonbinary, and plural pronoun constructions in an acceptability judgement task while undergoing EEG recording.
Within this project, I am also exploring how LLMs can be used to better understand natural human language processing and aid in improving traditional experimental design.
Individual Differences in SLA: Musical Ability and Working Memory
I worked on this project as part of my undergraduate research training in the PLUM Lab. It sought to determine if working memory updating mediated the relationship between musical ability and SLA success. The study also utilized ERPs and explored acquisition of all three language domains.