Second Language Cognition and Brain Lab
Explore the (neuro)cognitive processes involved in second language learning and use across classroom, digital media, and virtual reality (VR) environments.
Our mission
The Second Language Cognition and Brain Lab aims to advance understanding of the cognitive and neurocognitive processes that underlie second language (L2) communication and learning in a variety of settings and conditions, including digital media and virtual reality (VR) environments.
It aims to facilitate interdisciplinary research bridging applied linguistics, language education, educational technology, cognitive neuroscience, and psycholinguistics. Combining eye-tracking, EEG, and behavioural measures, our research makes use of methodological triangulation to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the (neuro)cognitive processes underlying second language learning and use.
People
Co-ordinators
Team members
Research lab managers
- Li-Chung Chang (Eye-tracking-EEG co-registration Lab)
- Se Won Kim (Eye-tracking-EEG co-registration Lab)
- Marybeth Martin (VR Neurocognition Lab)
- Hu Xin (Eye-tracking Lab)
- Ting Zeng (Eye-tracking Lab)
Doctoral students
- Grace Benati
- Li-Chung Chang
- Kristy Suet Sin Cheung
- Se Won Kim
- Marybeth Martin
- Rebecca Moden
- Anna Monashnenko
- James Webb
- Hu Xin
- Ting Zeng
Former doctoral students
- Can Akcin
- Sam Barclay
- Yoojin Chung
- Wilson Hong
- Masako Ishikawa
- John Rogers
- Jookyoung Jung
- Yeonwoo Jung
- Nektaria Kourtali
- Minjin Lee
- Xiaojun Lu
- Xin Rong
- Danni Shi
- Yoshiko Shiroyama
- Andi Wang
Research facilities
Our research labs are equipped with eye-tracking equipment, electroencephalogram (EEG) systems, and VR systems with integrated eye-tracking and EEG. These facilities enable us to conduct research that brings together applied linguistics, language education, psycholinguistics, and neuroscience.
Eye-tracking Lab
Co-founders: Andrea Révész and Ana Pellicer-Sánchez
Date: 2017
Description
The Eye-tracking Lab aims to investigate the cognitive processes underlying language learning and use. It supports a broad range of studies in the areas of second language acquisition, bilingualism and multilingualism, technology-mediated communication and instruction, language testing and assessment, multimodal communication, and digital literacies.
Equipment
- EyeLink 1000 Plus (SR Research) (Desktop mount; host Dell laptop; display computer; chin rest; button box)
Software
- Experiment Builder, Data Viewer, Weblink (SR Research), E-prime (Psychology software tools)
Lab managers: Ting Zeng and Hu Xin
Contact details: a.revesz@ucl.ac.uk; a.pellicer-sanchez@ucl.ac.uk
VR Neurocognition Lab
Founder: Andrea Révesz
Date: 2026
Description
The VR Neurocognition Lab aims to facilitate research at the intersections of applied linguistics, cognitive neuroscience, computer science, digital media, music education, intercultural communication, and psychology. The space enables the integration of VR, eye-tracking, and EEG to investigate the neurocognitive processes involved in communication and learning in and through VR settings.
Equipment
- 2 x VR Headsets + Eye trackers: Varjo XR-4 Mixed/Virtual Reality headset with integrated eye-tracking
- 2 x VR Hand-tracking camera: Ultraleap
- 2 x EEG Systems: Enobio Wireless 20
Software
- iMotions - VR Eye-Tracking / EEG / Auto-AOI modules, Varjo Base Pro
Lab manager: Marybeth Martin
Contact details: a.revesz@ucl.ac.uk
Eye-tracking-EEG Co-registration Lab
Founder: Ana Pellicer-Sánchez
Date: 2024
Description
The Eye-tracking-EEG Co-registration Lab enables the simultaneous registration of eye movements and EEG, providing a more comprehensive examination of cognitive processes involved in language processing and production. It aims at facilitating research in the areas of language learning and processing, language assessment, oral literacies, music and neuroscience, digital media, and multilanguage acquisition.
Equipment
- 1 x Eye-tracking system Eyelink 1000Plus (SR Research)
- EyeLink 1000 Plus Core Unit
- 1 ELP-2K-UP EyeLink 1000 Plus High-Speed Tracking Camera Upgrade
- 1 ELP-DESK-89 EyeLink 1000 Plus Desktop Mount for Binocular High-Speed Tracking
- 1 ELP-RMT-UP Remote Camera Upgrade Package
Software
- SR Research Experiment Builder, Data Viewer, WebLink License
- EEG system (Brain Products):
- actiCHamp Plus 32 System with actiCAP
- TriggerBox Plus Kit for actiCHamp
- BrainVision Analyzer 2.0 local license + dongle package
- Add-on BrainVision Analyzer 2.0 professional Add Channels
Lab managers: Se Won Kim & Li Chung-Chang
Contact details: a.pellicer-sanchez@ucl.ac.uk
Contact seminar coordinators
If you would like to attend our research seminars, please contact our seminar coordinators.
Contact lab directors
If you are interested in collaborative opportunities, or have a consulting/media enquiry, please contact the lab directors.