Advanced modelling made simple with the Gmodel metalanguage.

Gmodel is a metalanguage that has been designed from the ground up to enable specification and instantiation of modelling languages. Although a number of metalanguages can be used for this purpose, most provide no or only limited support for modular specifications of sets of complementary modelling languages. Gmodel addresses modularity and extensibility as primary concerns, and is based on a small number of language elements that have their origin in model theory and denotational semantics. This article illustrates Gmodel's capabilities in the area of model-driven integration by showing that the Eclipse Modeling Framework Ecore language can easily be emulated. Gmodel offers support for unlimited multi-level instantiation in the simplest possible way, and any metalanguage emulated in Gmodel can optionally be equipped with Gmodel's multi-level instantiation functionality

Advanced modelling made simple with the Gmodel metalanguage.

Gmodel is a metalanguage that has been designed from the ground up to enable specification and instantiation of modelling languages. Although a number of metalanguages can be used for this purpose, most provide no or only limited support for modular specifications of sets of complementary modelling languages. Gmodel addresses modularity and extensibility as primary concerns, and is based on a small number of language elements that have their origin in model theory and denotational semantics. This article illustrates Gmodel's capabilities in the area of model-driven integration by showing that the Eclipse Modeling Framework Ecore language can easily be emulated. Gmodel offers support for unlimited multi-level instantiation in the simplest possible way, and any metalanguage emulated in Gmodel can optionally be equipped with Gmodel's multi-level instantiation functionality

Language learning never gets old: learning a new language in later life

Is learning a new language when you’re older possible? And if it is, are there health benefits? Late-life language learning (LLLL) has become a hot topic over the last few years. It all started with studies finding cognitive benefits for life-long multilinguals, such as symptoms of Alzheimer’s manifesting up to 5 years later. Researchers then hypothesised that older monolinguals could maybe benefit from similar cognitive advantages by learning a new language later in life. To study this, we set up an online three-month English course for Dutch seniors. We wanted to know if it was possible to learn a new language later in life, what kind of teaching worked best, and if there were additional benefits to language learning. We found older adults to show agency over their language learning process. And to show big individual differences. These are most probably the result of all accumulated life experiences and, together with the language learning agency, make the older language learner unique. It is, however, very much possible for older adults to learn new languages and it is even considered to be a fun activity. Additionally, there are other benefits to LLLL such as cognitive benefits and increased well-being and language attitudes. As most of our results did not show big differences between the two types of language instruction, any form of language learning that is enjoyable for older adults is recommended