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Using Prosodic Information to Improve Learning of a New Language

Jarczyńska, Aleksandra (2025) Using Prosodic Information to Improve Learning of a New Language. Bachelor thesis, Psychology.

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Abstract

Previous research has shown that certain prosodic speech features (PSFs) are associated with accuracy and subjective confidence in retrieving information in a language one is fluent in. We investigated whether these associations are present when the learning material is more complex. We also tested whether prosody correlates with accuracy and subjective confidence while learning a new language. 48 native Dutch participants learned multiple Italian sentences. Participants retrieved a Dutch or Italian translation and judged their confidence in responding correctly. We recorded and analysed their speech patterns. We found that retrieving the sentences in Italian (L2) was much more difficult than in Dutch (L1). In line with previous research, we found a positive correlation between intensity (loudness) and accuracy, and a negative correlation between pitch change and subjective confidence. These correlations were stronger when participants retrieved information in their native language. Interestingly, speaking speed correlated with accuracy and subjective confidence, and more so in the Italian retrieval condition. Our findings suggest that prosodic information can help predict individual learning, but these patterns are more consistent in the native language. The study contributes to improving adaptive learning models by expanding them with longer items. Keywords: adaptive learning models, L1, L2, memory retrieval, prosody, prosodic speech features

Item Type: Thesis (Bachelor)
Supervisor name: Sarampalis, A.
Degree programme: Psychology
Differentiation route: None [Bachelor Psychology]
Date Deposited: 23 Jul 2025 08:27
Last Modified: 23 Jul 2025 08:27
URI: http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/5684

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