Second language processing shows increased native-like neural responses after months of no exposure

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Linguistics

Background:

• Adult second language (L2) acquisition is challenging, yet native-like processing is achievable.
• Retaining L2 skills without continuous exposure is crucial, as periods of disuse are common.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a substantial period of no L2 exposure on adult L2 learners' performance and neural processing.
• To determine if L2 proficiency and native-like neural processing are maintained or enhanced after a period of disuse.

Main Methods:

• Adults learned an artificial language to high proficiency via explicit or implicit training.
• Learners underwent several months with no exposure to the artificial language.
• Event-related potentials (ERPs) were used to measure neural processing of syntax before and after the exposure delay.

Main Results:

• L2 proficiency remained unchanged after the period of no exposure.
• Native-like neural processing of syntax, indicated by ERP changes (e.g., anterior negativities, P600s), increased.
• Both explicit and implicit training groups showed enhanced native-like ERP patterns, independent of training type.

Conclusions:

• Extended periods without L2 exposure are not detrimental and may even enhance native-like neural processing.
• Implicit training led to more native-like processing than explicit training, both before and after the delay.
• L2 grammar learning and retention may involve declarative and procedural memory consolidation and forgetting processes.