How do the languages that we speak affect numerical processing and mathematics achievement?

Loughborough UniversityLoughborough, United Kingdom

Course overview

A growing body of research suggests that different aspects of language influence the way we think about, represent, and apply numbers and mathematical concepts. One aspect of language that has repeatedly been shown to affect numerical processing concerns the way numbers are named. Indeed, number-naming systems vary significantly across languages.

For example, in English, two-digit numbers above twenty are named in the same order as they are written: first the tens and then the units (“forty-eight”). In Dutch or German, however, it is the opposite (“48” in Dutch or German is named “eight and forty”). Increasingly more studies show that such irregularities in number words can be a stumbling block for children’s mathematical development and can even affect numerical processing in adulthood.

Given that bi- and multilingualism is becoming increasingly common in our globalised world, considering how language influences the processing of numerical information in bilingual speakers and second-language learners becomes increasingly relevant. This project aims at increasing our understanding into how the languages that we speak affect numerical and mathematical development which will in turn inform interventional approaches for multi-lingual language contexts and enhance educational practice. The successful applicant will join the vibrant community of the Centre for Mathematical Cognition, one of the world's leading research centres for the study of mathematics education and numerical thinking.

The Centre for Mathematical Cognition brings together academics who conduct research in three different areas: basic research on mathematical cognition, the design of research-based educational resources, and the evaluation of educational interventions. This project might be a suitable topic to form the basis of an application to the ESRC Midlands Graduate School's Open Studentship scheme (deadlines are typically in January) via the education pathway. 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

REF 2021

Key highlights

Research into how number-naming systems affect numerical processing
Investigates numerical development in bilingual speakers and second-language learners
Findings aim to inform interventions for multilingual educational contexts
Based in the Centre for Mathematical Cognition research community
Centre spans basic research, educational resource design and intervention evaluation
Possible route to ESRC Midlands Graduate School Open Studentship funding

Entry requirements

Degree: 2:1 — or above

Scholarships

Alumni Bursary
10% of tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
Up to 10% of fees
Alumni Discount
UK students: £1,500 tuition fee discount for one academic year. International students: £3,000 tuition fee discount for one academic year.
Care Leaver's Scholarship
Excellence Scholarships
UK students: £3,000 off tuition fees; International students: £6,000 off tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
International Sports Student Postgraduate Bursary
Our International Sports Student Postgraduate Bursary offers a £12,000 tuition fee discount (set against the tuition fees of your chosen postgraduate taught programme ONLY).
Up to £12,000
London 10th Anniversary Award
£5,000 off tuition fees.
Up to £5,000
Loughborough Business School Scholarship
£1,500 (UK students) and £3,000 (international students) off tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
MBA Progress with Purpose Scholarship
50% of tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
Up to 50% of fees
Qatari Ghanim Al-Muftah Excellence Scholarship

Careers this course leads to

Academic researcher in mathematical cognition
University lecturer in psychology or education
Educational researcher
Educational resource designer
Education policy adviser
Postdoctoral research fellow

Cost of study

UK/Home: £5,238 | International: £23,100

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Loughborough University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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