Dr Aaron Veldre, Research Associate, School of Psychology, University of Sydney

Bio:

Dr Aaron Veldre is a postdoctoral research associate in the School of Psychology at The University of Sydney and the School of Psychological Sciences at Macquarie University. His research uses eye tracking, computational modelling, and behavioural paradigms to investigate the cognitive processes underlying language comprehension. He currently works on two ARC-funded projects investigating the coordination of vision, attention, and linguistic processing during online reading in younger and older adults, and on the development of a complete computationally implemented model of reading.

Abstract:

Reading is a remarkable acquired skill that is fundamental to educational and vocational success in modern societies. But it is a relatively recent cultural invention—writing systems have existed for less than 6000 years and literacy has only been a widespread skill for about 200 years. Reading is therefore not part of our genetic blueprint and relies on neural systems that evolved for other purposes. A complete theory of reading needs to describe how perceptual, linguistic, and oculomotor processes are precisely coordinated to support the rapid extraction of meaning from print. In this talk, I will present evidence from a series of recent studies characterizing how readers allocate attention in the fovea and parafovea to identify words and decide when and where to move their eyes. I will also describe work investigating the impact of ageing that provides insight into the balance between perceptual and linguistic processes during reading.

This is a Hybrid event so you can join in person or via the Webinar link below:

HEYDON LAURENCE LECTURE THEATRE 217 (DT ANDERSON) (You are encouraged to please wear a mask if attending in person)

Webinar Link: https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/s/89638045313