Overview

Alternative Approaches to Second Language Acquisition: Second Edition is the eagerly awaited, expanded update of a landmark text. This volume explores alternative perspectives on second language acquisition, offering a critical challenge to the dominantly cognitivist, theory-testing framework on which SLA studies was originally based, and which continues to broadly influence the field. Leading SLA scholars provide a comprehensive overview of nine alternative approaches: complex dynamic systems theory, sociocultural theory, identity studies, conversation analysis, language socialization, corpus analysis, decolonial theory, assemblage theory, and the sociocognitive approach. Each contribution reflects the cutting edge of current research, including unique insights into the vast complexities of learning second/additional languages. The consistent chapter structure enables readers to directly compare and navigate these diverse approaches. The editors’ introduction offers a powerful rationale for understanding the relevance of these alternative approaches in today’s rapidly evolving landscape of SLA research and pedagogy. This volume is an essential resource for graduate students, researchers, and educators in Applied Linguistics, SLA studies, and language education. It serves as both a comprehensive introduction for newcomers and a fresh update for those familiar with the first edition.

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9781032730677

Table of Contents

Reviews

""This second edition of this classic volume presents more than just “alternative approaches”--each chapter offers an intriguing, insightful, and important approach to SLA. The editors have managed to bring together a prolific line-up of scholars to expand our thinking about what we look at when studying second language development at both conceptual and practical levels. In short: a must read for anyone aiming for a fuller understanding of SLA."" Marije Michel, Professor of Second Language Acquisition & Chair of Language Learning, University of Groningen, Netherlands. ""It is truly exciting to read this new edition of the thought-provoking volume on alternative approaches to second language acquisition. Like the first edition, this compelling collection of contributions offers valuable insights for language educators and inspires readers to engage deeply with what truly matters for learners in language education. Such engagement enables educators to develop and apply pedagogical strategies that prepare learners for the complexities of the world beyond language learning, supporting them in pursuing their aspirations. This text should serve as an essential resource for use in any language teacher education program."" Xuesong Andy Gao, University of New South Wales, Australia ""This volume is a rich compendium of original perspectives on SLA theory. Having designed and moderated an online teacher development course based around the first edition, I am very excited by the prospect of repeating the experience with the new edition."" Scott Thornbury, formerly The New School, NY. ""Showcasing new, cutting-edge perspectives, this volume transforms our understanding of second language acquisition. Each chapter reinforces a profound truth: we do not live to learn languages—we learn languages to live. Essential reading for anyone involved in second language learning and teaching."" Miyuki Sasaki, Waseda University, Japan ""This collection provides important updates to the influential first edition (2011). Over a decade later, recent research within these approaches has enriched our understanding of the complexity of language learning. With cogent descriptions and discussion of synergies, this is essential reading for students and researchers alike."" Marta Antón, Indiana University, Editor-In-Chief, The Modern Language Journal

“This second edition of this classic volume presents more than just 'alternative approaches'—each chapter offers an intriguing, insightful, and important approach to SLA. The editors have managed to bring together a prolific lineup of scholars to expand our thinking about what we look at when studying second language development at both conceptual and practical levels. In short: a must read for anyone aiming for a fuller understanding of SLA.” Marije Michel, University of Groningen, Netherlands “It is truly exciting to read this new edition of the thought- provoking volume on alternative approaches to second language acquisition. Like the first edition, this compelling collection of contributions offers valuable insights for language educators and inspires readers to engage deeply with what truly matters for learners in language education. Such engagement enables educators to develop and apply pedagogical strategies that prepare learners for the complexities of the world beyond language learning, supporting them in pursuing their aspirations. This text should serve as an essential resource for use in any language teacher education program.” Xuesong Andy Gao, University of New South Wales, Australia “This volume is a rich compendium of original perspectives on SLA theory. Having designed and moderated an online teacher development course based around the first edition, I am very excited by the prospect of repeating the experience with the new edition.” Scott Thornbury, formerly The New School, USA “Showcasing new, cutting-edge perspectives, this volume transforms our understanding of second language acquisition. Each chapter reinforces a profound truth: we do not live to learn languages—we learn languages to live. Essential reading for anyone involved in second language learning and teaching.” Miyuki Sasaki, Waseda University, Japan “This collection provides important updates to the influential first edition (2011). Over a decade later, recent research within these approaches has enriched our understanding of the complexity of language learning. With cogent descriptions and discussion of synergies, this is essential reading for students and researchers alike.” Marta Antón, Indiana University, USA

Author Information

Dwight Atkinson is a faculty member in the Second Language Acquisition and Teaching Doctoral Program at the University of Arizona. His research interests include second language acquisition and teaching, multilingual writing, and qualitative research methods/approaches. Elena Taylor is an associate professor of applied linguistics at Utah State University. Her research interests include second language writing, multimodal interaction, and interpersonal aspects of language learning and teaching.

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