This paper wants to examine the two processes of acquisition and learning, compare them to find differences and possible similarities and try to find ways to make use of the processes by taking influence on them through intelligent teaching. The field contains multiple approaches and positions among the different researchers. Within this paper, I want to accentuate the two main notions of the research. One of them considers acquisition to be the only effective way to gain language knowledge, the other argues for learning. As representatives of the respective stream, I want to highlight Stephen Krashen's research for the acquisition position and Robert DeKeyser and Catherine J. Doughty on the learning side. Finally, I want to try to derive a couple of possible implications from the research which could enhance second language teaching for the future.
Table of Contents
- 1 Introduction
- 2 Definition of Terms and Abbreviations
- 3 Distinction between Second Language Acquisition and Learning
- 4 Acquisition
- 4.1 Stephen Krashen
- 4.1.1 Acquisition-Learning Hypotheses
- 4.1.2 Monitor Hypotheses
- 4.1.3 Input Hypotheses
- 4.1.4 Influence of the first language/Transfer
- 4.2 Differences Child/Adult SLA
- 4.3 Universal Grammar/Instinct
- 4.1 Stephen Krashen
- 5 Learning
- 5.1 Robert De Keyser
- 5.1.1 Implicit learning
- 5.1.2 Instructed SLA
- 5.2 Arguments for Explicit Learning
- 5.1 Robert De Keyser
- 6 Implications for Teaching
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper aims to examine the processes of second language acquisition (SLA) and second language learning, comparing and contrasting them to identify differences and similarities. The ultimate goal is to explore how these processes can be leveraged to improve second language teaching methods. The paper focuses on two main theoretical perspectives: one that emphasizes acquisition as the primary means of language attainment and another that advocates for learning.
- The distinction between second language acquisition (SLA) and second language learning.
- The contrasting theories of Stephen Krashen (acquisition-focused) and Robert DeKeyser (learning-focused) regarding SLA.
- The differences in SLA between children and adults.
- The role of universal grammar and inherent linguistic instincts in SLA.
- Implications for improving second language teaching methodologies.
Chapter Summaries
1 Introduction: This introductory chapter establishes the central question of the paper: why is it that children acquire their first language with relative ease, while adults often struggle with second language acquisition? It highlights the contrasting processes of acquisition (largely unconscious) and learning (conscious), introducing the key researchers (Krashen and DeKeyser) whose work will be examined in later chapters. The paper's objective is to analyze these processes and explore their implications for language teaching.
2 Definition of terms and abbreviations: This chapter clarifies the terminology used throughout the paper, defining key concepts such as acquisition, learning, SLA, FLA, L1, and L2. It addresses potential overlaps and ambiguities in existing research terminology, establishing a consistent framework for the subsequent analysis. This is crucial for avoiding confusion and ensuring clear communication of ideas throughout the paper.
3 Distinction between Second Language Acquisition and Learning: This chapter delves into the debate surrounding the distinction between SLA and learning. It presents opposing viewpoints, notably the Language Socialization perspective of Watson-Gegeo and Nielsen, which argues against a strict dichotomy between the two processes. It then contrasts this perspective with the more traditional view that emphasizes the differences between acquisition and learning, critically examining research that supports both sides of this debate. The chapter concludes by justifying the paper's decision to maintain a distinction between acquisition and learning for the purpose of focused analysis and practical implications for teaching.
4 Acquisition: This section focuses primarily on the theories of Stephen Krashen, exploring his hypotheses related to acquisition. It examines the key tenets of his Acquisition-Learning hypothesis, Monitor hypothesis, and Input hypothesis, highlighting how these hypotheses explain the relative ease of first language acquisition compared to the challenges of adult second language learning. The chapter further examines the role of first language transfer and the specific differences between child and adult SLA. The concept of Universal Grammar is also explored as a potential explanation for innate linguistic abilities.
5 Learning: This chapter contrasts with the previous one by focusing on the learning perspective, examining the work of Robert DeKeyser. It explores DeKeyser's views on implicit and explicit learning, and it investigates the arguments for the effectiveness of explicit instruction in second language learning. The chapter analyzes the contrasting views of acquisition and learning presented by Krashen and DeKeyser, preparing the ground for the discussion of implications for teaching in the following chapter.
Keywords
Second Language Acquisition (SLA), Second Language Learning, Stephen Krashen, Robert DeKeyser, Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis, Monitor Hypothesis, Input Hypothesis, Implicit Learning, Explicit Learning, Universal Grammar, Child SLA, Adult SLA, Language Socialization, Instructional Methods.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this paper?
This paper examines the processes of second language acquisition (SLA) and second language learning, comparing and contrasting them to identify differences and similarities. The ultimate goal is to explore how these processes can be leveraged to improve second language teaching methods.
What are the key theories discussed?
The paper focuses on two main theoretical perspectives: Stephen Krashen's acquisition-focused approach and Robert DeKeyser's learning-focused approach. Krashen's theories include the Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis, Monitor Hypothesis, and Input Hypothesis. DeKeyser's work emphasizes implicit and explicit learning in SLA.
What is the difference between second language acquisition (SLA) and second language learning?
The paper delves into the debate surrounding this distinction. While some argue against a strict dichotomy, the paper maintains a distinction for analytical purposes and practical implications for teaching. It examines perspectives that emphasize the unconscious nature of acquisition versus the conscious nature of learning.
How does the paper address the differences between child and adult SLA?
The paper explores the differences in SLA between children and adults, considering factors that contribute to the relative ease of first language acquisition compared to the challenges of adult second language learning. This includes examining Krashen's hypotheses in light of developmental differences.
What is the role of Universal Grammar in SLA?
The paper explores the concept of Universal Grammar as a potential explanation for innate linguistic abilities that influence SLA. It examines the extent to which inherent linguistic instincts contribute to the acquisition process.
What are the implications for teaching?
The paper discusses the implications of the contrasting acquisition and learning perspectives for second language teaching methodologies. It considers how understanding these processes can lead to more effective and efficient language instruction.
Which researchers are central to the paper's analysis?
The work of Stephen Krashen (acquisition) and Robert DeKeyser (learning) forms the core of the theoretical framework. The paper also references the Language Socialization perspective of Watson-Gegeo and Nielsen.
What are the key chapters and their contents?
The paper includes chapters on introduction, definition of terms, the distinction between acquisition and learning, detailed explorations of acquisition (focusing on Krashen) and learning (focusing on DeKeyser), and finally implications for teaching.
What are the keywords associated with this paper?
Key terms include Second Language Acquisition (SLA), Second Language Learning, Stephen Krashen, Robert DeKeyser, Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis, Monitor Hypothesis, Input Hypothesis, Implicit Learning, Explicit Learning, Universal Grammar, Child SLA, Adult SLA, Language Socialization, and Instructional Methods.
Where can I find a more detailed table of contents?
The provided HTML includes a detailed table of contents outlining the structure and subtopics within each chapter. This allows for a clear understanding of the scope and organization of the paper.
- Quote paper
- Matthias Dorsch (Author), 2010, Second Language Acquisition vs. Second Language Learning, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/181754