The Role of Prediction Error in Second Language Learning

Abstract

It has been shown that language users quickly adapt to statistical properties of language input available in a local environment and that such learning by adaptation can be explained by the error-based learning mechanism that is based on prediction error, i.e., the difference between predicted input and received input. Many previous studies on L1 adult speakers and children demonstrated evidence for learning based on prediction errors. It is, however, not yet known whether the same learning mechanism operates for second language learning. The current study tested this with Japanese learners of English. Using the eye-tracking reading technique, we examined an effect of structural ambiguity, which induces prediction error, on learning of the relative clause structure. The results from both comprehension questions and eye-tracking reading time measures showed that the ambiguity cost was significantly reduced following the experience of temporarily ambiguous reduced relative clause sentences compared to following unambiguous counterparts, demonstrating that prediction error plays a crucial role for second language learning.