Renato Pavlekovic
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Email
r.pavlekovic@essex.ac.uk -
Location
Colchester Campus
Profile
Biography
Renato is an assistant lecturer and a research officer at the University of Essex, and his research interests center on the cognitive processes that underlie second language (L2) learning, with a particular emphasis on the role of individual differences in language aptitude and working memory capacity. He is particularly interested in examining how these individual differences interact with L2 proficiency level and the difficulty of linguistic target structures, using various research methodologies, including experimental designs and advanced statistical techniques such as regression, generalized linear models, and structural equation modeling. Moreover, he is dedicated to developing and validating measures of both implicit and explicit learning aptitude, as well as language measures used to gauge implicit and explicit knowledge. Through his research, he aims to contribute to the development of more effective language learning strategies. Furthermore, his research has practical implications for language teaching and learning, and he is committed to sharing his findings with a broad audience through academic publications and presentations.
Qualifications
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BSc Computer Science University of Rijeka
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MA TESOL University of Essex
Research and professional activities
Research interests
Explicit and implicit knowledge and learning
As a researcher in second language acquisition, my focus is on the investigation of explicit and implicit language knowledge. Explicit knowledge involves conscious awareness of the linguistic structure, while implicit knowledge is acquired subconsciously through exposure and interaction. Understanding the interaction of these knowledge types (the interface issue) is crucial for effective second language learning. My research provides insights into effective second language learning methods.
Key words: explicit knowledgeLanguage aptitude and working memory in SLA
Explicit and implicit language aptitude and working memory play a significant role in second language acquisition. Specifically, the intricate interplay between these factors is critical for comprehending individual differences in SLA. My research aims to investigate this interplay and its effect on successful SLA by examining the extent to which language aptitude and working memory predict second language proficiency, as well as the underlying mechanisms that mediate this relationship.
Key words: explicit language aptitudeReaction time measures in applied linguistics
My research interest lies in the use of reaction time (RT) experiments in applied linguistics. Specifically, I am interested in developing and validating RT-based measures to assess various aspects of language processing in second language contexts. RT experiments have the potential to provide valuable insights into the cognitive mechanisms underlying language use and acquisition. I aim to contribute to the refinement and advancement of RT methods for investigating language processing.
Key words: reaction time experiments in applied linguisticsMeasures of explicit and implicit language aptitude
I focus on validating and refining the measures of explicit and implicit language aptitude, such as LLAMA (Language Learning and Aptitude Measurement in Adults) and SRT (Serial Reaction Time) tasks. LLAMA (putatively) measures explicit and implicit language aptitude, while SRT measures implicit language aptitude. By exploring their relationship with other factors like working memory I aim to deepen the understanding of individual differences in second language learning.
Key words: LLAMAStatistical models in linguistics
My research interest lies in exploring the application of advanced statistical techniques, such as Rasch analysis, regression analysis, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling in the examination of complex linguistic data. Specifically, I am focused on developing innovative and robust statistical methods that can effectively model and interpret linguistic data, with the ultimate goal of contributing to the advancement of the field of applied linguistics.
Key words: regression