Concept

The aim of this proposed workshop is threefold. The rapid development and spread of new technologies allow for a vast array of different L2 input measures. Therefore, the first aim of our workshop is to look for ways to deconstruct the notion of ‘input’ in second language (L2) research. We will be addressing issues of how to conceptualize, measure, and analyze input available at varied contexts at the disposal of L2/Ln learners. The second aim is to immerse in the new trajectories into second language development (SLD) research taking an empirical perspective through the lens of a Dynamic Systems Theory (DST) framework. The third is to be informed about and to discuss ways to implement advanced data analysis methods, such as nonlinear computerized modelling to trace any change trajectories in learners’ interlanguage as a result of exposure to L2 input in different learning environments. The role of several individual learner difference variables will also be addressed concerning this much debated complex phenomenon of SLD.

These discussions will be guided by the following grand tour questions:

• • What aspects of language learning and language change can be analyzed?

• • What linguistic features can be focused on?

• • How do we come up with a sustainable research design?

• • What issues have to be considered when collecting (longitudinal) data?

• • What methods can be employed to spot traces of change in one’s L2/Ln?

• • How can we productively discuss constructs of language development, such as complexity, accuracy, and fluency?

The expert scholars invited to conduct the keynote sessions (lectures) in this workshop are:

• • Prof. Dr. Marjolijn Verspoor, Professor of Language Learning with a focus on English language and second language acquisition, the Department of English Language and Culture, the University of Groningen

• • Prof. Dr. Wander Lowie, Professor of Applied Linguistics with a focus on Neurolinguistics and language development, the Department of Applied Linguistics, the University of Groningen

Apart from the lectures, doctoral and postdoctoral researchers with current related projects or with an interest in relevant research will be invited to/expected to attend this workshop. It is also possible to have individual consultation sessions with the experts provided that participating researchers give short presentations on their work. Doctoral and postdoctoral researchers from all philology departments affiliated with the HPSL network as well as Swiss universities of teacher education will be called for participation.

Registration

Registration for oral presentations by PhD students and PostDocs

by 15.03.2020 to magdalena.zinsstag@unibas.ch.

Please send us your abstract (max. 500 words + references) clearly stating your aim, your research question, methodology and (if applicable) results. Please make sure to embed it in the wider context of the workshop.

Registration for individual consultations with Prof. Dr. Marjolijn Verspoor and Prof. Dr. Wander Lowie

by 15.03.2020 to magdalena.zinsstag@unibas.ch.

Please send us a brief description of your query (max. 300 words) for the individual consultation.

Registration for participation without oral presentation

by 31.03.2020 to magdalena.zinsstag@unibas.ch.

Please let us know if you’d like to join the complete workshop or specific parts of the workshop.

Preliminary program

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

16:00 – 17:00

Keynote Lecture Prof. Dr. Wander Lowie & Discussion

The group and the individual: complementary dimensions of language development

17:00 – 17:30

Coffee break

17:30 – 18:30

Keynote Lecture Prof. Dr. Marjolijn Verspoor & Discussion

Constructs of L2 Development from a Dynamic Usage Based (DUB) perspective

19:00

Joint dinner

Thursday, April 30, 2020

13:00 – 16:30

Workshop: Methodological discussion, incl. presentations by local PhD students and postdocs with the possibility of individual consultations with Prof. Dr. Marjolijn Verspoor and Prof. Dr. Wander Lowie.

16:30 – 17:00

Coffee & concluding discussion