Social networks, language practices and acquisition

COST ACTION SAREP

Working Group 3 meeting, 1 June 2017

Université de Perpignan Via Domitia

Input is crucial in second language acquisition (SLA); without it, acquisition cannot take place. Input implies contact, i.e. how learner and language come together. Study of contact with the target language in the context of immersion can focus on quantity (e.g. time spent in immersion, number of interactions, etc.) just as it can focus on quality (e.g. type or importance of interactions, themes, activities, etc.). Research has shown that time spent in the target language community is basically beneficial for SLA. But just how far can we delve into the qualitative aspects? While network modelling programmes can be used to map how different actors relate to one another, and how this in turn can be correlated with mastery of particular features, understanding what different types of contact actually bring about in terms of acquisition requires further thought.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss qualitative issues pertaining to social networks analysis for the study of second language acquisition, with particular attention paid to work on language practices within contexts beyond the traditional remit of SLA. Participants will be invited to work specifically towards looking at ways of relating the development of language mastery to particular activities, contexts and types of usage.

For details click here.