Language experiences and cognitive control: A dynamic perspective

Ping Li, Yanping Dong

Research output: Chapter in book / Conference proceedingChapter in an edited book (as author)Academic researchpeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The effect of bilingual experience on cognitive control has been intensively examined in the past two decades, but empirical studies have provided inconsistent findings about the presence of the so-called “bilingual advantage.” In light of recent controversies on this topic, we propose to consider the ecosystem of language experience (i.e., properties of the environment for learning and using a language) and the expertise of the language learner or user (e.g., linguistic and nonlinguistic abilities including nonverbal skills such as musicality) in resolving the controversies. The consideration of these two dimensions and the interaction between the two, is highly consistent with a dynamic perspective on bilingualism that has a broad base in cognitive and linguistic sciences. Future studies may benefit from this perspective, along with consideration of other factors, to better understand the developmental trajectories and the changing landscape of the bilingual's two languages in the mind and the brain.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdult and Second Language Learning
EditorsKara D. Federmeier, Hsu-Wen Huang
PublisherElsevier
Chapter2
Pages27-52
Number of pages26
ISBN (Print)978-0-12-820377-4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Apr 2020

Publication series

NamePsychology of Learning and Motivation
PublisherElsevier
Volume72
ISSN (Electronic)0079-7421

Keywords

  • Bilingual advantage
  • Cognitive control
  • Dynamic perspective
  • Ecosystem
  • Expertise
  • Language experience

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Developmental and Educational Psychology

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