Full-time FSR doctoral position in the Project "Embodied grammar learning in high-immersive virtual reality"

We are seeking a full-time doctoral student funded by the FSR (Fonds Spécial de Recherche) to contribute to a project aimed at developing an empirically based framework for embodied grammar learning within VR-based environments. This project integrates insights from Embodied Cognition Research (ECR), which emphasizes the connection between body and language, into educational research to enhance learning outcomes through embodiment.

Recent studies highlight the potential of combining embodied learning techniques with cognitive linguistic approaches for grammar acquisition. These studies suggest that directing learners' attention to the embodied meanings of target structures in a foreign language can significantly improve grammar learning. However, most existing research has utilized low-interactivity methods such as watching multimedia animations with minimal engagement features (e.g., play and stop buttons). This project seeks to fill this gap by exploring the effects of higher levels of bodily engagement (e.g., physical actions) on grammar learning and examining the role of highly immersive virtual reality environments in enhancing these effects.

• To investigate whether higher levels of bodily engagement (high immersion and high interactivity) in VR-based environments can leverage embodied grammar learning.
• To understand in how far cognitive and affective factors modulate the impact of higher levels of bodily engagement in VR-based environments on embodied grammar learning.

The full-time doctoral student will contribute to conducting a large-scale experimental study within the Teaching and Acquiring Multilingualism and Multiliteracies (TeAMM) research group. TeAMM comprises ten tenured academics and approximately 20 PhD students, PostDocs, and other academic experts.

This position offers a full-time doctoral position for 24 months, with the potential to apply for a further 24-month extension.

Where to apply

E-mail ferran.sunermunoz@uclouvain.be

Requirements

Research Field Language sciences » Linguistics

Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field Educational sciences » Teaching methods

Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Specific Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics, Educational Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in Cognitive Linguistics, Cognitive Psychology, and Language Learning and Teaching.
• Excellent proficiency in both spoken and written English and German.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Basic oral and written proficiency in French.
• Experience in conducting empirical studies in the field of Language Learning and Teaching.
• Experience with quantitative and inferential statistical analysis.
• Experience with virtual reality tools for language learning or another relevant area of expertise.

Applicants should submit the following documents:

• One letter of recommendation from academics with relevant expertise related to the project.
• An up-to-date CV detailing academic records.
• Samples of scientific work, such as published papers, a Master’s thesis, term papers, etc.
• A list of at least two referees who can provide letters of reference in support of the application.

Languages GERMAN

Level Excellent

Languages ENGLISH

Level Excellent

Research Field Language sciences » Linguistics

Years of Research Experience 1 - 4

Additional Information

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available 1

Company/Institute Institute for Language and Communication (IL&C)

Country Belgium

Contact

City Louvain-la-Neuve

Website http://www.uclouvain.be

Street Place de l'Université, 1