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A Protocol for the Administration of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Training
Published on: August 24, 2017
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Unconscious improvement in foreign language learning using mismatch negativity neurofeedback: A preliminary study
Ming Chang1,2, Hiroyuki Iizuka3, Hideki Kashioka1
1Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology and Osaka University, Iwaoka, Iwaoka-cho, Nishi-ku, Kobe, Hyougo, Japan.
Plos One
|June 16, 2017
Summary
Neurofeedback training using mismatch negativity (MMN) improved unconscious auditory discrimination of foreign language sounds. This method aids foreign language learning by enhancing perception of non-native speech sounds.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Linguistics
- Auditory Perception
Background:
- Difficulties in perceiving non-native speech sounds are a major hurdle in foreign language acquisition.
- Previous research demonstrated that neurofeedback based on mismatch negativity (MMN) can facilitate unconscious learning of auditory discrimination for pure tones.
- The potential of MMN neurofeedback for improving the perception of foreign language speech sounds remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of mismatch negativity (MMN) neurofeedback for enhancing the perception of foreign language speech sounds.
- To determine if MMN neurofeedback can help native Japanese speakers discriminate between English 'l' and 'r' sounds.
- To assess the impact of this neurofeedback on both conscious and unconscious auditory discrimination and word recognition.
Main Methods:
- Developed a specialized task to train native Japanese speakers in discriminating between English 'l' and 'r' sounds.
- Utilized mismatch negativity (MMN) event-related brain potential neurofeedback during the auditory discrimination task.
- Assessed participants' performance in discriminating target words ('light', 'right') and related words without conscious awareness of the training's nature.
Main Results:
- Participants showed significant improvement in unconscious auditory discrimination of 'l' and 'r' sounds after MMN neurofeedback.
- Neurofeedback training led to enhanced recognition of target words containing the trained 'l' and 'r' sounds.
- Improvement extended to recognition of untrained words containing 'l' and 'r', indicating generalized learning.
Conclusions:
- Mismatch negativity (MMN) neurofeedback is an effective method for facilitating the unconscious perception of foreign language speech sounds.
- This neurofeedback approach can significantly improve auditory discrimination and word recognition in foreign language learners.
- The method holds promise for accelerating foreign language acquisition and has potential applications in other sensory and clinical research areas.
