Neural processes underlying perceptual learning of a difficult second language phonetic contrast
نویسندگان
چکیده
Neural processes underlying the perceptual learning of the English /r-l/ phonetic contrast by native Japanese speakers before and after extensive perceptual identification training using feedback was investigated using fMRI. Relative to control conditions (English /b-v/ and /b-g/ contrasts), the /r-l/ contrast showed greater brain activity as well as functional connectivity (reflecting underlying global mappings) postrelative to pretraining bilaterally in frontal and temporal brain areas involved with speech processing as well as the cerebellum and the putamen.
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