title: Second-language learning and changes in the brain.
abstract: Presumably, second-language (L2) learning is mediated by changes in the brain. Little is known about what changes in the brain, how the brain changes, or when these changes occur during learning. Here, we illustrate by way of example how modern brain-based methods can be used to discern some of the changes that occur during L2 learning. Preliminary results from three studies indicate that classroom-based L2 instruction can result in changes in the brain's electrical activity, in the location of this activity within the brain, and in the structure of the learners' brains. These changes can occur during the earliest stages of L2 acquisition.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA.
authors.forename: Lee
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Osterhout
authors.forename: Andrew
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Poliakov
authors.forename: Kayo
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Inoue
authors.forename: Judith
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: McLaughlin
authors.forename: Geoffrey
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Valentine
authors.forename: Ilona
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Pitkanen
authors.forename: Cheryl
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Frenck-Mestre
authors.forename: Julia
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hirschensohn