Linguistic and metalinguistic categories in second language learning

This paper discusses proposed characteristics of implicit linguistic and explicit metalinguistic knowledge representations as well as the properties of implicit and explicit processes believed to operate on these representations. In accordance with assumptions made in the usage-based approach to language and language acquisition, it is assumed that implicit linguistic knowledge is represented in terms of flexible and context-dependent categories which are subject to similarity-based processing. It is suggested that, by contrast, explicit metalinguistic knowledge is characterized by stable and discrete Aristotelian categories which subserve conscious, rule-based processing. The consequences of these differences in category structure and processing mechanisms for the usefulness or otherwise of metalinguistic knowledge in second language learning and performance are explored. Reference is made to existing empirical and theoretical research about the role of metalinguistic knowledge in second language acquisition, and specific empirical predictions arising out of the line of argument adopted in the current paper are put forward. © Walter de Gruyter 2008

The Development of Language Learning Aptitude and Metalinguistic Awareness in Primary-School Children: A Classroom Study

In the typical foreign language classroom, many learners all over the world find themselves in a minimal-input environment. Existing research suggests that in such a setting, adolescents typically outperform younger children. The greater cognitive maturity of older learners manifests itself in greater language learning aptitude, greater metalinguistic awareness, and enhanced capacity for explicit learning. We examined whether the teaching and learning of either Esperanto or French would facilitate the development of language learning aptitude and metalinguistic awareness in 8-9-year-old children (N=28), thus setting the scene for enhanced explicit learning even at a young age. Following instruction in either Esperanto or French over a school year, children made significant gains on measures of aptitude, metalinguistic awareness, and L2 proficiency. Effect sizes in the Esperanto group were larger throughout, however, with greater homogeneity of performance in evidence and a closer association between aptitude, metalinguistic awareness, and L2 proficiency at the end of the treatment. Moreover, Esperanto proved significantly easier to learn than French, with larger gains in L2 proficiency achieved by the Esperanto group compared with the French group. Finally, we found that language-analytic ability emerged as a significant predictor of L2 achievement in the sample as a whole

Gender Equity and Renewable Energies : Thematic Background Paper

The aim of this paper is to review existing evidence on the role of renewable energies in bringing gender equity. The paper first explores the evolution of thinking on gender and energy, in particular that practitioners no longer specifically focus on women and stoves (often referred to as “household energy”). Next, the reasons why gender analysis can help those people trying to increase the dissemination of renewable energy technologies are presented. There is a brief description of the gender aspects of household energy, and how different renewable energy technologies can contribute to drudgery reduction and time saving, particularly for women. The role of women in renewable energy is analysed. The paper concludes with an analysis of lessons learnt and recommendations. However, the point has to be stressed that there is now only beginning to emerge information about gender and energy in the South, and there is very little information about the situation in the North. The data that are available are primarily in the form of case studies, mainly related to stoves programmes and rural electricity grid extension. The systematic collection of gender-disaggregated statistical data by energy ministries does not occur and it is very rare to find energy project evaluations that use gender analysis. This means that much of the analysis should be seen as only as indicative, although this does not invalidate the recommendations since many of these are linked to the general situation of women having fewer assets than men

Analysis of a Universal Depression Screening Workflow at an Integrated Healthcare Center

Purpose: Evaluation of an evidence-based protocol that measures the effectiveness of universal depression screening at an integrated healthcare center. At risk patients are those who complete a patient health questionnaire (phq-9) and score ≥ 10 when presenting for a primary care visit. A score of ≥ 10 prompts further evaluation by the primary care provider (PCP) prior to behavioral health care management (BHCM) referral. Background: In 2016, 16.2 million adults aged 18 or older in the U.S. experienced a major depressive episode (MDE). 65.3% of those received some form of treatment from a healthcare professional (therapy and/or medication). Early identification of patients who may benefit from mental/behavioral health services has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce costs. An evidence-based collaborative care protocol at an integrated health care center can help decrease the financial burden of a disorder that was shown to have a financial impact of $210.5 billion in the U.S. in 2015. Process: A retrospective analysis of a universal depression screening protocol implemented at an integrated health care center on February 1, 2018. The process involves completion of a phq-9 questionnaire via the patient link electronic system prior to being evaluated by the PCP. Scores of ≥ 10 are flagged. The PCP assesses the score with the patient. If in agreement, the behavioral health care management referral is placed and a warm hand off is done from the PCP to the care manager. The care manager will further assess the patient in order to appropriately utilize mental/behavioral health services. Weekly reports from IT of all flagged phq-9 are reviewed by care managers. Outcomes: With the introduction of electronic patient link questionnaire tablets, a 56% screening rate via phq-9 questionnaires was discovered. Behavioral health care management referrals were appropriately ordered 77% of the time. Appointments, show rates, and BH services utilized will be presented. Conclusion: Mental health issues account for up to 70% of primary care visits. PCPs correctly diagnose depression as little as 25% of the time. It is imperative that an integrated health care center establish an effective collaborative care protocol shown to improve healthcare equity, patient outcomes and disease burden/costs

Sharing meaning across the neurodivide:Research through illustration alongside people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD)

The perspectives of people labelled with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) remain significantly underrepresented in academic research. This article introduces a developing research methodology that explores how illustration-based methods might assist researchers in attuning to, and amplifying, non-linguistic contributions to knowledge made by people who do not use conventional language to communicate. As a medium that champions alternative forms of communication and aims to make complex subjects accessible to a wide range of audiences, illustration offers additional opportunities to open up the research arena to people with PIMD. This potential is discussed here within the framework of the author’s ongoing Ph.D. research. The methodology outlined in this article is developed within the Sensory Studio, a mobile workspace purpose-built for artistic exchange and co-creation between artists with PIMD and Frozen Light Theatre, a Norwich-based organization creating multi-sensory shows specifically for PIMD audiences. Reflecting on the ethical considerations that shaped the design of this methodology, the author shares some of the unanticipated findings that research through illustration has so far brought to light