NeuroCOL

BACKGROUND

Listening comprehension in a second language (L2) is a demanding cognitive process that involves a heavy cognitive load (Roussel et al., 2021). Despite the abundance of research in this field, the precise mechanisms underlying L2 listening comprehension remain poorly understood.

The COraIL project (PhD 2022–2025, LiDiLEM-GIN, funded by IRGA222) aims to address this gap by adopting an interdisciplinary approach that combines behavioral and neurophysiological data.

The protocol is being rolled out in two phases:

1. Behavioral phase (2024, ongoing) :
   • Recording of electrodermal responses (EDR) and heart rate variability (HRV) during listening comprehension tasks, in order to identify cognitive and emotional barriers.
   • Using the think-aloud protocol with a digital tool that allows learners to annotate problematic audio segments.
   • Additional assessment of working memory as a factor influencing listening comprehension.
2. fMRI Phase (2025) :
   • Observation of brain activity and connectivity within the language, attention, and cognitive networks (working memory, cognitive performance) during CO tasks in L1 and L2.
   • Comparison of participant profiles at the elementary (A2) and advanced (B2) levels of L2.

This study marks the first collaboration in neuroimaging between the LiDiLEM laboratory and the GIN, drawing on the expertise of Chantal Delon-Martin (GIN) and with the support of a research engineer from the LPNC.

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STUDENT CONTRIBUTION

The selected intern will assist with the following tasks: Designing experimental stimuli for functional MRI sessions. Implementing and monitoring the fMRI protocol, including organizing sessions and communicating with participants. Acquiring neuroimaging data in collaboration with the GIN team. Analyzing fMRI data in collaboration with researchers from partner laboratories.