The project, entitled ‘Phonological cognisance and allied linguistic representations: acquisition, bilingualism, change and script’ (PAAL), is a collaboration between experts from top international universities. In it, Fikkert is collaborating with Aditi Lahiri (University of Oxford), Allison Wetterlin and Linda Wheeldon (University of Agder). As lead applicant, Fikkert, professor of First Language Acquisition and Phonology and dean of the Faculty of Arts, will retain her role as dean during the first years of the grant. In doing so, her duties will be partially taken over by vice-deans and the director of operations.
A fresh look at the sound systems of language
The PAAL project investigates how we process and understand language sounds. The sound system is important for understanding how language is learned and how language changes over time, and especially in relation to written language. ‘Understanding language seems to come naturally, but it is actually very complex,’ says Fikkert. ‘Phonology, or the sound system of a language, helps us recognise words even when people pronounce them differently.’
The project looks at the knowledge native speakers have about their language without being aware of it, such as recognising words that are not possible in the native language. ‘We hope to better understand how sounds help us use language smoothly,’ Fikkert adds. This could lead to new ideas for stimulating language development, for example in children with language difficulties.
CLS and the Donders Institute
The Centre for Language Studies (CLS) is part of the Donders Institute, which since this year has become a network organisation with six partners on the Radboud Campus. Fikkert: ‘I was involved in the institute and the creation of the cognitive neuroscience master's programme from the beginning. I am also involved in the Donders Institute in my role as a researcher at the Baby & Child Research Centre. Among other things, the network connects CLS researchers with other (language) researchers on campus, and increases the opportunity for collaboration, sharing expertise, and using each other's facilities.’
More information
Want to know more about the research and the award of this grant. Then read Radboud University's press release.