This study explores neural mechanisms underlying how prior knowledge gained from pre-listening transcript reading helps comprehend fast-rate speech in a second language (L2) and applies to L2 learning. Top-down predictive processing by prior knowledge may play an important role in L2 speech comprehension and improving listening skill. By manipulating the pre-listening transcript effect (pre-listening transcript reading [TR] vs. no transcript reading [NTR]) and type of languages (first language (L1) vs. L2), we measured brain activity in L2 learners, who performed fast-rate listening comprehension tasks during functional magnetic resonance imaging. Thereafter, we examined whether TR_L2-specific brain activity can predict individual learning success after an intensive listening training. The left angular and superior temporal gyri were key areas responsible for integrating prior knowledge to sensory input. Activity in these areas correlated significantly with gain scores on subsequent training, indicating that brain activity related to prior knowledge-sensory input integration predicts future learning success.

中文翻译：

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大脑活动可预测未来强化第二语言听力训练的学习成功

本研究探讨了从听前成绩单阅读中获得的先验知识如何帮助理解第二语言 (L2) 中的快速语音并应用于 L2 学习的神经机制。通过先验知识进行自上而下的预测处理可能在 L2 语音理解和提高听力技巧方面发挥重要作用。通过操纵听前成绩单效果（听前成绩单阅读 [TR] 与无成绩单阅读 [NTR]）和语言类型（第一语言 (L1) 与 L2），我们测量了 L2 学习者的大脑活动，他们在功能磁共振成像期间执行快速听力理解任务。此后，我们检查了 TR_L2 特定的大脑活动是否可以预测强化听力训练后的个人学习成功。左角回和颞上回是负责将先验知识整合到感官输入的关键区域。这些领域的活动与后续训练的增益分数显着相关，表明与先前知识-感官输入整合相关的大脑活动可以预测未来的学习成功。