Prof. LI Ping, Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies

Digital Language Learning (DLL): Computational and Neurocognitive Mechanisms. Sun Yat-sen University Conference on Bilingualism. Department of Chinese (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai Campus, Guangdong, 9-11 June 2023.

Abstract
How can we leverage advances in digital technology and computational power to enhance language learning? In an era of widespread digital application and innovation, our understanding of the interaction between humans and technology has lagged behind. In this talk, I outline an approach that combines emerging technologies and data-driven methodologies with current computational and neuro-cognitive theories, in an effort to gain insights into language learning and bilingual representation. This approach highlights interactive mechanisms (bottom-up and top-down) and integrative processes (theory and application) that enable us to understand the differences between child and adult language learning, as well as individual differences in diverse language learning contexts. Computational and neurocognitive studies in this domain also have significant implications for application of AI and machine learning in personalized education, which is especially relevant in light of today’s rapid developments in large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT.