Rhythm, Phonology, and Learning to Read

This project explores the relationships between rhythmic perception and production skills, phonological skills, and literacy skills during the process of learning to read. It aims to examine the mechanisms underlying these relationships at different stages of learning, by analysing how they are structured from Kindergarten to Grade 3. Particular attention is given to atypical developmental trajectories, especially in children at risk of developing dyslexia.

The Cerebellum and Written Language Disorders

This project investigates the presence of written language disorders in children with cerebellar impairments of either developmental or tumour-related origin. It aims to gain a better understanding of the cerebellum’s contribution to learning to read by testing several potential explanatory hypotheses (temporal-rhythmic, procedural, and phonological). This work leads us to reflect on critical periods in the acquisition of reading, as well as the influence of treatments and broader impairments (intellectual disability, processing speed difficulties) in the presence of cerebellar disorders.

Collaborations: Delphine Dellacherie (PSITEC, University of Lille), Madeline Vandenbergue (Oscar Lambret Centre), Marie-Pierre Lemaître (Reference Center for Language and Learning Disorders), and the Rare Disease Reference Center at Lille University Hospital.

Artistic Practices in Rural and Priority Contexts

This project evaluates the effects of collective artistic practices offered in the classroom to children from rural or disadvantaged areas, notably through choral singing and visual arts workshops. In particular, it examines the effects of these workshops on socio-emotional skills, executive functions, and certain language skills, as well as on school motivation. The project is based on a close partnership with cultural and educational stakeholders in the region (Lille Opera, Louvre-Lens Museum) and contributes to strengthening the links between research and field practices.

Collaborations: Delphine Dellacherie (PSITEC, University of Lille), Séverine Samson (PSITEC, University of Lille), Sylvain Clément (PSITEC, University of Lille), Antoine Guinamard (PSITEC, University of Lille), Rémy de Domenico (PSITEC, University of Lille), Aline Frey (CRPN, Aix-Marseille University), Cédric Hubert (CRPN, Aix-Marseille University), Simone Dalla Bella (BRAMS, University of Montreal), Nicholas Foster (BRAMS, University of Montreal), Agathe Givry (Lille Opera), Christine Rigaud (Lille Opera), Juliette Barthélémy (Louvre-Lens Museum).