How the Brain Learns to Speak: A Workshop on Neurodevelopment and Language

The Neurodevelopment, Speech, and Language Workshop, hosted by NIRx and the University of Szeged, Hungary (both linguistics and neurology departments) brings together researchers, clinicians, and students interested in understanding how the developing brain supports speech and language learning. The event will explore the neural mechanisms that underlie early communication, the emergence of linguistic abilities, and the role of neurodevelopmental processes in typical and atypical language acquisition.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about current methodologies used in developmental neuroscience, with a special focus on functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and its applications in studying brain activity in infants, children, and young adults. Case studies, research findings, and practical demonstrations will highlight how neuroimaging tools can deepen our understanding of language learning trajectories.

The workshop will also feature two invited speakers, each bringing expert perspectives on neurodevelopmental research and language acquisition models. Their contributions will offer valuable insights, helping attendees connect theoretical knowledge with real-world research and clinical implications.

Designed as a collaborative and interactive experience, this workshop aims to foster dialogue, stimulate new ideas, and encourage interdisciplinary approaches to studying the human brain and language.