Melissa Baralt

Melissa Baralt is a Professor of Applied Psycholinguistics at Florida International University (FIU), specializing in bilingualism, second language acquisition, and task-based language teaching. Her research focuses on bilingual pre-K curricula, language teacher training, and minority student experiences in world language classrooms.

• Education: Ph.D. and M.S. in Applied Linguistics from Georgetown University (with distinction), B.A. in Spanish Linguistics from the University of Virginia
• Research Grants: Over $2.4 million in federal, state, and private funding for projects like Háblame Bebé (mobile app for bilingual families), FIU Tabadul (VR language learning), and HSI-HBCU collaborations for inclusive Spanish curricula

Her work integrates psycholinguistic theory with practical applications, emphasizing equity in language education for Hispanic and Black communities. She has developed innovative tools like the Háblame Bebé app and Virtual Tabadul VR platform, addressing early language environments and digital pedagogy.

Key publications include edited volumes on psycholinguistic approaches to technology and language learning, peer-reviewed articles on bilingual cognitive advantages, task-based teaching efficacy, and systematic reviews of culturally relevant interventions. Her research spans applied linguistics, neonatal cognitive development, and digital language pedagogy.

• Selected Grants:
• NEH-funded open-access curriculum on Blackness in Latin America
• NIH/HRSA-funded projects on bilingual early intervention
• In-house FIU grants for eye-tracking technology and literacy supports

Baralt’s projects often involve interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with health professionals, technologists, and educators to bridge language education gaps in marginalized communities.