Recognizing numbers in different scripts

Abstract

This paper considers the effects of different language scripts on the recognition of digits. It reports on two experiments with Arabic-speaking subjects in which they were asked to scan arrays of digits in both standard 'Western numeral' and 'Indian numeral' forms. It compares the array-scanning patterns observed with patterns observed with speakers of other languages, in particular with English native speakers. It discusses the implications of these findings in terms of the use of language-specific word recognition strategies.

The development of word recognition in a second language

“…We must, for example, take into account the learners' processing experiences in both LI and L2, as well as their probable interplay. Although systematic investigations of LI processing experience effects (e.g., Brown & Haynes, 1985;Gairns, 1992;Green & Meara, 1988;Koda, 1989bKoda, , 1990Randall, 1991;Ryan & Meara, 1991) and L2 experience effects (e.g., Bernhardt, 1991b;Haynes & Carr, 1990;Segalowitz & Segalowitz, 1993) have been undertaken, there has been little systematic exploration of the ways in which the interchange among linguistic systems affects L2 processing performance. In an attempt to narrow this gap, the present study, using adult ESL learners with contrasting (related and unrelated) LI orthographic backgrounds, examined the extent and manner in which LI and L2 orthographic distance influences L2 word recognition efficiency.…”