The UW-Madison English Department is excited to introduce the English Language and Linguistics Psycholinguistics Lab, or ELLPL. This lab is dedicated to exploring the intricacies of language processing using behavioral methods such as online tasks and eye-tracking technology. ELLPL dives into bilingualism, second language acquisition, heritage language processing, and psycholinguistics, making it a key contributor to innovative research on campus.
Professor Juliet Huynh, the lab’s founder and director, shared how her passion for language research inspired the creation of ELLPL. “My desire to continue my research interests in my relevant fields motivated me to pursue the creation of ELLPL. I want to be able to work with the various speaker communities in Madison, and having a lab space such as ELLPL is key,” she explained.
Since its establishment, ELLPL has expanded both in size and scope. “Our members come from various programs across campus, such as the English Department, Asian Languages and Cultures, and Language Sciences. We’ve launched projects with Spanish-English bilingual groups, developed new methodologies, and started exploring the possibilities of eye-tracking technology,” she said.
Professor Huynh underscored the lab’s importance in furthering the English Department’s dedication to understanding the nuances language:
“Understanding how words and phrases are stored, organized, and activated is powerful, but what makes this all the more meaningful is examining how various groups of speakers process this linguistic information. Are the processes different? Are they the same? What does this tell us about linguistic processes? By focusing on these questions, ELLPL contributes to the Department’s goals and its commitment to diversity and anti-racism.”
For Professor Huynh, one of the most fulfilling aspects of leading ELLPL has been highlighting underrepresented speaker groups in language research and fostering collaboration.”One of the most rewarding aspects has been highlighting groups of speakers in language processing research. It’s also been fulfilling to bring together people with varying research interests and to learn about different psycholinguistic methodologies together,” she shared. Looking to the future, she expressed her hopes for the lab: “I want ELLPL to continue engaging with bilingual communities, including heritage speakers, speakers dominant in a language other than English, and speakers from the Madison community. I hope the members will feel empowered to explore methodologies and pursue their own research questions.”
ELLPL’s impact extends deeply into the academic growth and personal journeys of its members. Song Zhou, a graduate student in the English Language and Linguistics Program, shared her reasons for joining: “I’ve always been interested in psycholinguistics and wanted to connect with others who share similar research interests. ELLPL has provided inspiration and opportunities to engage in psycholinguistic research.”
A memorable moment for Song was hearing a presentation by Dr. Carolina Bernales on eye-tracking technology. “Her explanation was insightful and clear, broadening my understanding of its applications beyond my prior experience,” she recalled.
She credits the lab for enhancing her academic experience. “ELLPL creates an open and supportive environment where I’ve met friends, shared ideas, and found answers to my questions. It’s a fantastic space for anyone interested in psycholinguistics,” Song said, encouraging students to get involved.
For undergraduate student in the English Language and Linguistics Program, Zachary J. Peterson, joining ELLPL began with his interest in heritage language learners and experimental design. “I reached out to Dr. Huynh, and after our conversation, she invited me to attend lab meetings. This opportunity gave me a chance to learn more about psycholinguistics experimental design,” Zachary recalled.
A standout memory for Zachary has been learning Python and comparing his own projects to those of more experienced lab members. “It’s been inspiring to see the impressive work others are doing,” he said. Reflecting on ELLPL’s impact on his academic career, Zachary noted, “The lab has shaped the type of research I want to pursue, leading me to focus on linguistic research using online methodology and to apply to graduate programs emphasizing psycholinguistic research.” His advice for students? “Take classes on language acquisition as a starting point, and reach out to Dr. Huynh to learn how to get involved.”
Apart from their research projects, ELLPL organizes weekly reading groups. These gatherings offer students valuable opportunities to participate in discussions, gain new insights, and collaborate on research ideas.
ELLPL continues to grow as a hub for collaborative and innovative research, welcoming students interested in psycholinguistics. Whether you’re new to the field or planning your own research project, the lab offers valuable opportunities to connect with others, and explore methodologies.
For more information about ELLPL and its activities, visit the lab’s webpage or contact Professor Juliet Huynh at her email address: jhuynh5@wisc.edu.