Novel Word Learning (EEG) – Native English Speakers Needed!

STUDY BASICS

Are you a right-handed college student who is 18-35 years old? Are you also a native English speaker (English was the first language you learned)? You may be able to participate in a research study to understand how native English speakers learn new words and how these new words become part of long-term memory. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to understand how native English speakers learn new words and how these new words become part of long-term memory. By understanding these processes the goal is to understand the neural basis of word learning. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants:

• Are native English speakers
• Are ages 18-35
• Are right-handed 
• Have normal or Corrected-to-Normal vision
• Have no history of reading disabilities, epilepsy, or head injuries 
• Have clean, dry hair that is free from extensions, braids, and hair products on days 1 and 8

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

This research study investigates English world learning through electroencephalography (EEG). Participants will be learning new English words on two consecutive days. After the learning session on the first day, participants will complete an additional task while we measure their brain activity, safely and painlessly, through a soft-sponged net placed on the head. Additional computer reading tasks will be completed after the EEG portion. The second day will just involve the learning session. Three days after the second session, a one hour session will take place, with a final one hour session occurring three days later (one week after first participation) where once again brain activity will be measured.