Explicit Knowledge and Processes From a Usage-Based Perspective

The Developmental Trajectory of an Instructed L2 Learner

Bibliographic Data

ID4501835
AuthorsKaren Roehr‐brackin (University of Essex), Karen Roehr-Brackin (0000-0002-1152-5852, University of Essex, corresponding author)
Year2014
Volume64
Issue4
Pages771-808
Publication date2014-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueLanguage Learning (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0023-8333 • E-ISSN: 1467-9922
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/lang.12081
OpenAlexW1911236759
LanguageEN
Citations received18
References cited49

This article considers explicit knowledge and processes in second language (L2) learning from a usage-based theoretical perspective. It reports on the long-term development of a single instructed adult learner's use of two L2 constructions, the German Perfekt ofgehen("go," "walk") andfahren("go by vehicle"), which was tracked over a period of more than 3 years. The results indicate that explicit knowledge and processes seemed to have a powerful impact on the participant's L2 learning and use, apparently enabling him to override the predicted bottom-up developmental path in certain circumstances and take a top-down approach instead. Specifically, it was found that the development offahrenwas consistent with the predicted trajectory of moving from item-based to more schematic constructions. By contrast, the participant's use ofgehenwas characterized by schematic constructions almost from the beginning, suggesting a shortcut facilitated by explicit knowledge and processes. Both potential benefits and pitfalls associated with this alternative learning path are highlighted. The findings are explicated with reference to usage-based and complexity/dynamic-systems-theoretic concepts, thus offering an integration of explicit knowledge and processes in L2 learning and use into this particular theoretical framework

Cognitive psychology · Cognitive science · Explicit knowledge · German · Language acquisition · Linguistics · Mathematics education · Perspective (graphical) · Schematic · Trajectory · Artificial Intelligence · Computer Science · EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning · Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods · Psychology · Second Language Learning and Teaching

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