Neurocognitive Methods in Language Research: Techniques and Applications

Neurobiological Foundations of Language

An introduction to the key brain structures and neural mechanisms underlying language, such as Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas, the angular gyrus, and the prefrontal cortex. Topics include lateralization of language functions, language- related neural circuits, and brain plasticity in language learning and impairment.

Ses interventions auront lieu en présentiel (campus Pont de Bois, bâtiment B, petite salle de séminaire : B1.663) et en zoom (lien : https://univ-lille-fr.zoom.us/j/97275865733?pwd=ns7WWv8g5OlBtFExUHpVtwowJBxlfY.1 ; code si besoin : 799907)

"Neurocognitive Methods in Language Research: Techniques and Applications"
This seminar focuses on advanced technological approaches to investigate the neurobiological foundations of language processing. While clinical applications—such as research on hearing impairments—will be used as illustrative case studies, the emphasis will be broader, highlighting the linguistic dimensions and cognitive neuroscience tools used in language research, including EEG, ERP, and eye-tracking.
1. Neurobiological Foundations of Language : Monday 22nd, 1.15pm-3pm, room B1.663
An introduction to the key brain structures and neural mechanisms underlying language, such as Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas, the angular gyrus, and the prefrontal cortex. Topics include lateralization of language functions, language- related neural circuits, and brain plasticity in language learning and impairment.
2. Event-Related Potentials (ERP) and EEG in Language Processing : Tuesday 23rd, 1.15pm-3pm, room B1.663
This module presents how ERPs and EEG are used to investigate linguistic processing, such as syntax, semantics, and prosody. Although auditory impairment will be referenced—especially cochlear implant users—the focus is on how these techniques contribute to understanding linguistic phenomena more generally.
3. Eye-Tracking in Linguistic Research : Wednesday 24th, 3.15pm-5pm, room B1.663
Introduction to the use of eye-tracking technology to study language comprehension, reading behavior, and real-time sentence processing. Examples include syntactic ambiguity resolution, lexical access, and processing of discourse markers. Technical considerations of systems like Tobii will be briefly addressed.
4. Machine Learning and ASR in Speech Analysis : Thursday 25th, 3.15pm-5pm, room B1.663
This module explores how machine learning (ML) and automatic speech recognition (ASR) are applied to analyze both disordered and typical speech. Applications include early detection of neurodegenerative disorders and linguistic pattern analysis. The linguistic relevance of acoustic and prosodic features is emphasized, along with ethical considerations in AI use.