Catalogue Search | MBRL
Are you sure you want to remove the book from the shelf?
{{itemTitle}}
88,407
result(s) for
"Language skills"
Sort by:
Structural and Pragmatic Language Impairments in Children Evaluated for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Pragmatic language impairments are common in neurodevelopmental disorders, especially in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The relationship between structural language skills and pragmatic competence in children with autistic symptoms, however, is largely unknown. We investigated this relationship based on the Children’s Communication Checklist-2 and early language delay among children (N = 177, 19% females) clinically evaluated for ASD, differentiated into ASD (n = 148) and non-ASD (n = 29). Structural language deficits were common and associated with reduced pragmatic competence in both groups. Pragmatic language impairments were most profound in children with ASD. Early language delay and structural language deficits were less common in females. Our findings suggest that assessment of structural language skills should be included in the evaluation of children with suspected ASD.
Journal Article
Understanding heritage languages
With a growing interest in heritage languages from researchers of bilingualism and linguistic theory, the field of heritage-language studies has begun to build on its empirical foundations, moving toward a deeper understanding of the nature of language competence under unbalanced bilingualism. In furtherance of this trend, the current work synthesizes pertinent empirical observations and theoretical claims about vulnerable and robust areas of heritage language competence into early steps toward a model of heritage-language grammar. We highlight two key triggers for deviation from the relevant baseline: the quantity and quality of the input from which the heritage grammar is acquired, and the economy of online resources when operating in a less dominant language. In response to these triggers, we identify three outcomes of deviation in the heritage grammar: an avoidance of ambiguity, a resistance to irregularity, and a shrinking of structure. While we are still a ways away from a level of understanding that allows us to predict those aspects of heritage grammar that will be robust and those that will deviate from the relevant baselines, our hope is that the current work will spur the continued development of a predictive model of heritage language competence.
Journal Article
English made easy. Volume one, A new ESL approach : learning English through pictures
Presents a textbook for learning English that combines pictures and text into forty units covering such concepts as introductions, occupations, time, comparisons, preference, location, medical problems, and restaurants.
Book
Language Skill Differences Further Distinguish Social Sub-types in Children with Autism
This study investigated heterogeneity in language skills of children with autism and their relationship with different autistic social subtypes. Data from 90 autistic and 30 typically developing children were analyzed. Results showed that autistic social subtypes varied in language skill problems (aloof > passive > active-but-odd). There was a negative association between aloof dimension scores and language performance but positive for the active-but-odd dimension and no association in the passive one. Moreover, aloof dimension score was the main contributor to language performance. A receiver operating characteristic analysis suggested language vocabulary as an additional component in differentiating autistic social subtypes. These findings demonstrate that variations in language skills in autistic children provide additional information for discriminating their social subtype.
Journal Article
Mind your language: the importance of english language skills in an International Medical Programme (IMP)
Background
Language proficiency is crucial for doctors as they communicate with patients, peers and other healthcare professionals. Although proficiency in English is part of admission requirements, there is a gap in the knowledge of medical students’ perception of factors enhancing English language (EL) skills during training in international medical programmes (IMPs). The gap prevents educators and policy makers from helping students who struggle with communication skills during medical training. This study therefore explores the importance of English language skills from medical students’ perspectives.
Methods
Six focus group interviews with 24 medical students were conducted in an IMP. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s framework of thematic analysis.
Results
Results established three themes that constitute the importance of EL skills, namely the use of EL in medical training and practice, influence of university culture in EL mastery and individual EL proficiency as perceived by medical students.
Conclusions
Findings of this study demonstrate how students perceived the importance of EL skills as a professional and social requirement during medical training and for future practice. It also informs that setting English language admission pre requisites needs to be complemented with opportunities to practice context specific communication skills. Thus, international medical programmes should embed diverse and inclusive strategies to support and develop medical students’ English language skills.
Journal Article
Speak easy : the essential guide to speaking in public
Surveys show that for many people public speaking is the most frightening experience they will ever face. How do you prepare for a speaking engagement? What do you need to know about your body, your voice, the audience, the technology? Maggie Eyre has had many years' experience as a media trainer, communications consultant and performer. In Speak Easy, she takes the reader through the complete process, from initial concept to final delivery. Included in the book are chapters on body language, voice, health, warming up, managing your audience, fear, media skills, grooming and learning your lines. The text is illustrated with many anecdotes and case studies based on Maggie's own work and experience, with useful tips and summaries. Practical and authoritative, this is the ideal book for anyone facing a business presentation or an after-dinner speech.
Book
Teaching and learning the four English skills before and during the COVID-19 era: perceptions of EFL faculty and students in Saudi higher education
At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, synchronous online learning replaced physical classes worldwide. However, sustaining the quality of education during this transition was a challenge. Specifically, teaching and learning the four English skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) among English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) learners in contexts such as Saudi Arabia required greater adjustments to meet learners’ demands during the pandemic. Within this context, this study explored how online teaching and learning helped develop the four English skills among Saudi EFL students. A survey was conducted among EFL faculty and learners in a Saudi Arabian higher-learning institution regarding the diverse aspects of language skills development before and during the pandemic. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that e-learning was most beneficial for writing and least beneficial for speaking and that writing was most nurtured and adopted in almost all schoolwork, while speaking was neglected during online courses. Indeed, instructors must be prepared for an effective online learning experience in the future. This study aims to strengthen the field of EFL teaching and learning in Saudi Arabia and related contexts by describing learners’ perceptions of their experiences before and during the pandemic.
Journal Article