Proudly Present our Research Directions!
Neural Mechanisms of Language and Reading Development and Developmental Dyslexia
We systematically study the behavioral performance and neural mechanisms of typically developing individuals and those with developmental dyslexia (DD), both children and adults, throughout the process of language and reading development. By integrating behavioral assessments with various brain imaging techniques (such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy, or fNIRS), we aim to uncover the neural foundations of language and reading development and evaluate effective interventions for reading difficulties.
Our ongoing flagship project, "Hong Kong Children’s Chinese Language and Reading Development Study", focuses on the development, influencing factors, and neural mechanisms of Chinese language and reading abilities in children in Hong Kong. The goal is to help educators better understand children’s learning processes and provide scientific evidence for early identification and intervention.
Neural Plasticity Mechanisms in foreign Language Learning
By employing brain imaging techniques (such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, fMRI), we investigate the neural activity changes during second language learning, exploring the plasticity of the human brain when acquiring a new language. This research direction helps reveal functional changes in the brain during second language acquisition and provides scientific evidence for optimizing language teaching and enhancing learning outcomes.
Neural Mechanisms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Utilizing multimodal brain imaging techniques (such as electroencephalography, or EEG, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy, or fNIRS), we systematically study the neural mechanisms underlying cognition, perception, and social interaction in individuals with developmental disorders such as AD/HD. This promotes a comprehensive understanding of their cognitive functions and provides scientific support for intervention strategies.
Neural Mechanisms of Language and Social Cognition in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
We investigate the difficulties encountered by adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in understanding figurative language, and use functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to observe brain activity in children with ASD during joint attention situations. This allows us to explore the characteristics of their language and social cognition at the neural level.