How Language Variation Supports the Reading Brain

Moderator: Maya Valencia Goodall
Presenters:

• Dr. Jasmine Rogers —  A nationally recognized expert on language variation and the cognitive science of literacy.

Language variation is often misunderstood as a barrier to literacy, when research shows it plays a critical role in how the brain builds capacity for learning. In this session, Maya Goodall speaks with Dr. Jasmine Rogers about what cognitive science tells us about how the brain processes language, why unfamiliar sounds and structures are often rejected, and how bias shows up in literacy instruction long before educators are aware of it.

Drawing on her research on language variation, Black English, and bias, Dr. Rogers connects neuroscience, linguistics, and classroom practice to show why exposure to language variation strengthens learning, supports long-term cognitive development, and expands opportunity for students. The conversation reframes language difference as a resource for building literacy, not something to remediate or erase.

Participants will leave with:

• • A clearer understanding of how the brain processes language and variation
  • Insight into how bias influences literacy decisions and instructional responses
  • A research-grounded view of Black English and other language varieties
  • Practical implications for literacy instruction that builds cognitive capacity rather than narrowing it