Professor Dr. Andrew Lian

Optimizing the Connection Between Perception and Learning in Adult Second Language Learning

The relationship between reading, writing, and pronunciation has been firmly established in numerous studies, including those conducted at Charles Darwin University under the supervision of Dr. Ania Lian. This presentation will briefly outline the evidence supporting the integration of pronunciation into literacy training, demonstrating how a comprehensive approach to language skills can significantly enhance learning outcomes.  

Building on this foundational understanding, the presentation examines the complex relationship between perception and learning, particularly in adult second language learning. Adult learners often exhibit a conservative stance in their perception, favouring existing knowledge over new information. This entrenched approach, rooted in the need for efficient and effective communication, creates cognitive shortcuts that can inhibit new learning. To overcome this barrier, the presentation argues for the necessity of bypassing or modifying perceptual mechanisms.

Preliminary studies conducted in China and Vietnam focused on the speakers of tonal language speakers, to understand how perception influences English language learning. Key techniques based on verbotonal theory included the use of low-pass filtering and dichotic input to improve English language skills and listening comprehension. Innovative approaches such as self-imitation, where learners listen to their own voice modified synthetically to produce correct intonation, have also been explored. These studies represent initial steps in a broader research agenda that seeks to establish the generalizability of findings across different linguistic contexts, particularly non-tonal languages.

The presentation will discuss the potential for extending these methodologies to other aspects of language learning, such as listening comprehension in non-tonal languages, and the use of learners' own voices in different learning contexts. Additionally, the role of voice cloning, voice synthesis, and AI in enhancing both research and practical application will be highlighted.

This talk aims to shed light on the role of perception in language learning and proposes innovative strategies to facilitate the learning of new languages, especially for adult learners. It underscores the need for continued research to refine and generalize these approaches, potentially transforming language education practices.

Relevant recent publications (2023-2020) 

Danh Cong Vu, Lian, A.-P., & Siriyothin,Peerasak. (2022). Integrating Natural Language Processing and Multimedia Databases in CALL Software: Development and Evaluation of an ICALL Application for EFL listening Comprehension. CALL-EJ, 23(3), 41-69 (SCOPUS).

Li, Z., & Lian, A.-P. (2022). Achieving Self-Imitation for English Intonation Learning: the Role of Corrective Feedback. Chinese Journal of Applied Linguistics. Chinese Journal of Applied Linguistics, 45(01), 106-125 (Web of Science/Scopus).

Lian, A.-P. (2022). Hidden impacts and stereotypes of technology in language learning. AsiaCALL OnLine Journal, 13(4), 1–6. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.54855/acoj.221341

Lian, A.-P., & Sangarun, P. (2023). Rhizomatic learning systems and precision language education: A perfect match (Chapter 8). In M. S. Khine (Ed.), New Directions in Rhizomatic Learning From Poststructural Thinking to Nomadic Pedagogy (pp. 119–141). Routledge - Taylor & Francis Group. https://www.routledge.com/New-Directions-in-Rhizomatic-Learning-From-Poststructural-Thinking-to-Nomadic/Khine/p/book/9781032453088 

Luu, T. M. V., Lian, A.-P., & Siriyothin, P. (2021). Developing EFL Learners’Listening Comprehension through a Computer-Assisted Self-Regulated Prosody-Based Listening Platform. Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL-EJ), 22(1), 246-263 (SCOPUS). http://callej.org/journal/22-1/Luu-Lian-Siriyothin2021.pdf

Liu, K., Lian, A.-P., & Yodkamlue, B. (2021). Integrating Information literacy Training in an English-Speaking Course in the Chinese Context. Proceedings of the 17th International Conference of the Asia Association of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (AsiaCALL 2021), 533, 29–39. https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.210226.004

Tuyen Nguyen, C. B., & Lian, A.-P. (2021). Exploring Challenges of Major English Students Towards Learning English Speaking Skills Online During Covid 19 Pandemic and Some Suggested Solutions. Proceedings of the 18th International Conference of the Asia Association of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (AsiaCALL–2-2021). 18th AsiaCALL International Conference. https://doi.org/https://dx.doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.211224.014

Cai, X., Lian, A.-P., Puakpong, N., Shi, Y., Chen, H., Zen, Y., Ou, J., Zheng, W., & Mo, Y. (2021). Optimizing Auditory Input for Foreign Language Learners through a Verbotonal-Based Dichotic Listening Approach. Asian-Pacific  Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education (SCOPUS; Web of Science ESCI; ERIC), 6(14).

Li, Z., Lian, A.-P., & Yodkamlue, B. (2020). Learning English Intonation Through Exposure to Resynthesized Self-produced Stimuli. GEMA Online® Journal of Language Studies, 20(1), 54-76 (SCOPUS). https://doi.org/10.17576/gema-2020-2001-04

Deng, D., Seepho, S., & Lian, A. (2020). Preferential Admission Policies for Ethnic Minority Students in Yunnan: Help or Hindrance. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 19(4), 356-376 (SCOPUS). https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.19.4.21

Lian, A.-P., Cai, X., Chen, H., Ou, J., & Zheng, W. (2020). Cerebral Lateralization Induced by Dichotic Listening to Filtered and Unfiltered Stimuli: Optimizing Auditory Input for Foreign Language Learners. Journal of Critical Reviews, 7, 4608-4625 (SCOPUS). https://doi.org/https://dx.doi.org/10.31838/jcr.07.19.541

Parnkul, K., Sangarun, P., & Lian, A.-P. (2020). An Investigation of Autonomous English Learners’ Personal Learning Environments. Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, 18(2), 173-192 (Thai Citation Index). https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jhusoc/index

Lu, J., Puakpong, N., & Lian, A.-P. (2020). Analysis of the listening comprehension errors of Chinese university learners of English as a foreign language. IVCST Conference Proceedings, 576–582.

Wen, F., Lian, A.-P., & Sangarun, P. (2020). Determination of corrective optimals for Chinese university learners of English. Govor/Speech, 37(1), 3-28 (SCOPUS). https://hrcak.srce.hr/file/362922

Guo, L., Lian, A., & Puakpong, N. (2020). Development of a Web-based Autonomous Listening Comprehension for Chinese High School Students. IVCST Conference Proceedings, 605–612.

Luu, T. M. V., Lian, A., & Siriyothin, P. (2020). Interpretations of EFL Learners’ Listening Barriers from a Perceptual Perspective. IVCST Conference Proceedings, 569–575.

Lian, A.-P., He, B., Yang, Y., Wen, F., Cai, X., Luu, T. M. V., & Zhang, S. (2020). Toward Teacherless and Teacher-proof Language Learning in Selected Contexts. IVCST Conference Proceedings, (Prize for best presentation in session).

Luu, T. M. V., Lian, A.-P., & Siriyothin, P. (2020). Prosody-Based Techniques for Enhancing EFL Learners’  Listening Skills. In T. T. T. Le, T. T. Q. Bui, M. T. Mai, & T. N. Lam (Eds.), Proceedings of the 8th OpenTesol international conference 2020 (pp. 263–276). Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.