Veldhuis, Nina (2025) Exploring the Influence of Debate Phrases on Hand Gestures when People with Different First Languages Interact. Master thesis, Psychology.
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Abstract
Abstract This study investigated the influence of debate phrases on discussion and gestural use during interactions among dyads of university students with different first languages. Gestures are integral to communication, and their use is influenced by linguistic background, context, and task design. We explored the differences in gestural use among students communicating in their first (L1) and their second language (L2). In this study, six dyads engaged in discussions, prompted by statements which were designed to elicit discussion and gestures. Before the experiment, participants completed a C-test to assess their language proficiency. Each dyad engaged in discussions in either Dutch or English, with one participant using their L1 and the other their L2. The sessions were video-recorded, and the recordings were coded using ELAN 6.4. The data was analyzed in Microsoft Excel by ranking each statement for its effectiveness. Results revealed that abstract and philosophical prompts (e.g., "Which came first, the chicken or the egg?") together with physical topics elicited the longest discussions and most gestures, while disagreements between participants also elicited longer discussions and more gestures. No significant differences were observed in gestural use between L1 and L2 speakers. Additionally, the scores on the C-tests indicated high proficiency of the L2 participants. This pilot study suggests future research should focus on eliciting discussion and gestural use by philosophical or physical topics and debate phrases that elicit disagreement. Key words: gestures, different first languages, students, discussions.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
|---|---|
| Supervisor name: | Jonge-Hoekstra, L. de |
| Degree programme: | Psychology |
| Differentiation route: | Ontwikkelingspsychologie (O) [Master Psychology] |
| Date Deposited: | 22 May 2025 13:41 |
| Last Modified: | 22 May 2025 13:41 |
| URI: | http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4898 |
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