Explicit Knowledge and Processes From a Usage‐Based Perspective: The Developmental Trajectory of an Instructed L2 Learner. Issue 4 (15th October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roehr‐Brackin, Karen
• Is Part Of: Language learning. Volume 64:Issue 4(2014)
• Page Start: 771
• Page End: 808
• Publication Date: 2014-10-15
• Subjects: Language and languages -- Periodicals; Language and languages -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Linguistics; 407
• DOI: 10.1111/lang.12081
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0023-8333

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>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 of <italic>gehen</italic> ("go, " "walk") and <italic>fahren</italic> ("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 of <italic>fahren</italic> was consistent with the predicted trajectory of moving from item‐based to more schematic constructions. By contrast, the participant's use of <italic>gehen</italic> was 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.</p> </abstract>