Centre for Research in Language Development throughout the Lifespan (LaDeLi)

Our research looks at three key areas: early language development, language decline and second language learning and teaching.

Our research on early language development examines how children learn sounds, words and sentences in their first language, and how language(s) develop and influence each other in bilingual and multilingual children.

Development does not always mean learning – it can also mean forgetting. We study language decline, such as attrition of our first language, which may be brought about through lack of use, for example as a consequence of migration.

We are experts in research on second language learning and teaching. We look at how children, adolescents and adults acquire and develop a second or additional language beyond their first language and which factors influence such development. In addition, we look at how languages can best be taught, and what impacts on the success or otherwise of language instruction in the classroom.

Our Centre provides information and resources on bilingualism for parents, families, teachers, schools, language professionals and policy makers through the East of England branch of Bilingualism Matters. Set up in 2008, Bilingualism Matters is an international network of researchers, providing a wealth of information for individuals and organisations looking to further their understanding of bilingual language learning. 

We also host the Research in Primary Languages (RiPL) network for researchers, practising teachers, teacher educators and policy makers interested in the use and learning of languages in the primary-school classroom. Our founding member Professor Florence Myles manages this national network of researchers, helping to support and improve foreign language learning.

We organise and engage in a range of activities which contribute to the impact of our Centre. From articles in the press, hosting workshops for researchers and language practitioners, to one-off talks by invited leading expert speakers, our Centre is at the forefront of research into language development throughout the lifespan. To learn about the engaging work we are involved in, please read more about our research.