Automatic selective perception (ASP) of first and second language speech: A working model

In this model, speech perception is characterized as a purposeful, information-seeking activity whereby adult listeners detect the most reliable acoustic parameters that specify phonetic segments and sequences in their native language (L1), using highly over-learned selective perception routines. In laboratory perceptual tasks, differentiation of L1 phonetic contrasts is rapid and robust even in suboptimal listening conditions and even when the listeners focus on other levels of language structure, or indeed on another task. In contrast, late second language (L2) learners must employ greater attentional resources in order to extract sufficient information to differentiate phonetic contrasts that do not occur in their native language. Phonetic and phonological modes of speech perception are described, which can be tapped in the laboratory by manipulations of stimulus complexity and task demands. These experimental manipulations reveal complex interactions between the linguistic experience of listeners and phonetic similarity relationships between L1 and L2 phonological inventories. Illustrative experimental evidence from my studies of vowel perception using perceptual assimilation (cross-language identification), speeded discrimination, discrimination in speech babble, and brain indices of discrimination (MMN) are presented to provide operational definitions of these concepts. Similarities and differences from other current theories of cross-language and L2 speech perception are discussed.

Research Highlights► Description of a new theory of online processing of speech by native and non-native listeners. ► Definitions of concepts from cognitive psychology that are used in theories of speech perception. ► Discussion of attentional and automatic processes in speech perception. ► Illustrative research on the perception of non-native vowels. ► Methodological issues in cross language speech perception research.