EEG-based acceleration of second language learning is accomplished by measuring via single-trial EEG a learner's cognitive response to the presentation (visual or auditory) of language learning materials and updating a user model of latent traits related to language-learning skills in accordance with the cognitive response. The user model is suitably updated with each trial, each trial being triggered by learner fixation on a portion of visual materials and/or a next phoneme in auditory materials. Additional discrimination may be achieved through the use of saccades or fixation duration features.