Background of the Study
Attention is a core cognitive function that underpins efficient language processing, particularly among bilingual individuals. In Kano, many Hausa bilinguals navigate between Hausa and a second language—often English—necessitating robust attentional control to manage dual language activation. Recent research has underscored that selective attention is critical for filtering irrelevant information and focusing on linguistic inputs, thus enhancing comprehension and production (Abubakar, 2023). The bilingual experience often involves frequent code-switching and interference between languages, which can either bolster cognitive control or impose additional processing demands. In Hausa bilinguals, attentional mechanisms are further shaped by cultural communication styles and varying levels of language proficiency. This study investigates how attentional resources are allocated during language processing tasks among Hausa bilinguals in Kano. By integrating behavioral experiments with cognitive assessments, the research aims to elucidate the influence of selective attention on language performance. Such insights are essential for optimizing bilingual education and cognitive training programs, ultimately improving linguistic proficiency and cognitive flexibility (Musa, 2024; Suleiman, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although the benefits of bilingualism have been widely documented, the specific role of attention in managing dual language processing among Hausa bilinguals in Kano is not well understood. Most existing studies address bilingual populations in general, neglecting the unique cultural and linguistic context of Kano. Inadequate focus on attentional control mechanisms in this environment results in an incomplete understanding of how bilinguals efficiently switch between languages. This knowledge gap hampers the development of targeted cognitive interventions and educational strategies that could enhance language processing and overall academic performance (Abubakar, 2023; Musa, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To assess the impact of selective attention on language processing in Hausa bilinguals.
2. To evaluate how attentional control influences code-switching behavior.
3. To recommend cognitive strategies to optimize bilingual language performance.
Research Questions:
1. How does attention influence language processing in Hausa bilinguals?
2. What role does selective attention play in managing dual language activation?
3. What interventions can enhance attentional control in bilingual contexts?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it investigates the role of attention in language processing among Hausa bilinguals, providing insights that could improve educational and cognitive training programs. The findings will inform strategies to enhance bilingual performance, benefiting educators, clinicians, and policymakers by promoting cognitive efficiency in multilingual settings (Abubakar, 2023; Suleiman, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to examining attention in language processing among Hausa bilinguals in Kano using behavioral and cognitive assessments.
Definitions of Terms:
• Attention: The process of selectively focusing on certain stimuli while ignoring others.
• Bilingualism: Proficiency in two languages.
• Code-switching: Alternating between two languages during communication.
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