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Makeba Parramore Wilbourn CV

Associate Professor of the Practice of Psychology and Neuroscience
Psychology & Neuroscience
Box 90086, 417 Chapel Drive, Durham, NC 27708
214 Reuben-Cooke, Durham, NC 27708
CV

Overview


My program of research explores how the relationship between cognition and language changes over time and the types of input (e.g., gestures, bilingualism) that influence this relationship. In general, my research addresses three key theoretical questions. First, how does cognition influence language early in development? In particular, I am interested in how infants and toddlers’ developing cognitive and perceptual skills lay the foundation for early word learning and how this changes as a function of input and experience. Secondly, how does language come to influence cognition in children and adults? In this line of research, I am interested in determining how various types of linguistic and cultural experiences affect the cognitive abilities of monolinguals and bilinguals throughout development. Finally, how does the use of gesture influence the relationship between cognition and language? This area of research focuses on the relationship between early gesture use and later language development and how this relationship is influenced by socio-cultural factors, such as race and socioeconomic status.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Associate Professor of the Practice of Psychology and Neuroscience · 2017 - Present Psychology & Neuroscience, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Affiliate of the Center for Biobehavioral Health Disparities Research · 2014 - Present Center on Health & Society, Social Science Research Institute
Affiliate of the Center for Child and Family Policy · 2015 - Present Center for Child and Family Policy, Sanford School of Public Policy

Education, Training & Certifications


Cornell University · 2008 Ph.D.
California State University, Fullerton · 2001 M.A.
California State University, Fullerton · 1997 B.A.