Although children learn their mother tongue in close interaction with other people and objects, it is unclear whether such interactions can improve foreign language learning in adults. Furthermore, neural underpinnings of social learning and effects for speech production are not known. We will test efficacy of methods utilizing social interaction and embodiment in Finnish speaking adults learning Mandarin Chinese. Task performance for different aspect of language proficiency, as well as bodily reactions and brain activity will be measured during and after learning. Synchrony in brain activity between tutors and learners is investigated in language usage situations, and it is expected to reflect learning dynamics and correlate with learning performance. If social and embodied learning are found efficient, it would allow development of new evidence-based methods for foreign language learning.

2022

2026