Individual differences in computer-assisted language learning research
PDF

Keywords

CALL
macro-perspective
micro-perspective
individual differences

How to Cite

Li, B. (2023). Individual differences in computer-assisted language learning research. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 13(3), 695–701. https://doi.org/10.14746/ssllt.38970

Number of views: 505


Number of downloads: 605

Abstract

In the era of rapid technological expansion, the integration of various technologies into the process of second and foreign language (L2) learning and teaching has become pervasive, making computer-assisted language learning (CALL) a well-established field (Golonka et al., 2014). There is now a consensus that individual differences (IDs) significantly influence the process and product of L2 learning (Pawlak, 2020). With a plethora of technology-based options and functionalities, CALL provides learners with a high degree of autonomy (Pawlak et al., 2016), making it an environment that is ripe for capitalizing on learners’ individuality (p. 17). However, despite their critical role, IDs have not garnered the attention they genuinely merit in this context (Pawlak, 2022). To address this issue, Mirosław Pawlak and Mariusz Kruk put together the volume Individual Differences in Computer-Assisted Language Learning Research, providing timely and insightful guidelines for the exploration of IDs in CALL and the broader realm of second language acquisition (SLA) research.

https://doi.org/10.14746/ssllt.38970
PDF

Funding

This work is supported by the MOE (Ministry of Education in China) Project of Humanities and Social Sciences (NO. 21YJC740024) and Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities and the Youth Teacher International Exchange & Growth Program (NO. QNXM20220065).

References

Aubrey, S. (2017). Measuring flow in the EFL classroom: Learners’ perceptions of inter‐and intra‐cultural task‐based interactions. TESOL Quarterly, 51(3), 661-692. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/tesq.387

Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.

Dörnyei, Z. (2009). The L2 motivational self system. In Z. Dörnyei & E. Ushioda (Eds.), Motivation, language identity and the L2 self (pp. 9-42). Multilingual Matters. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21832/9781847691293-003

Golonka, E. M., Bowles, A. R., Frank, V. M., Richardson, D. L., & Freynik, S. (2014). Technologies for foreign language learning: A review of technology types and their effectiveness. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 27(1), 70-105. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09588221.2012.700315

Griffiths, C., & Soruç, A. (2020). Individual differences in language learning: A complex systems theory perspective. Palgrave Macmillan. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-52900-0

Henry, A. (2019). Directed motivational currents: Extending the theory of L2 vision. In M. Lamb, K. Csizér, A. Henry, & S. Ryan (Eds.), The Palgrave handbook of motivation for language learning (pp. 139-162). Palgrave Macmillan. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-28380-3_7

Hiver, P., Al-Hoorie. A. H., & Evans, R. (2022). Complex dynamic systems theory in language learning: A scoping review of 25 years of research. Studies in Second Language Acquisition. 44(4), 913-941. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0272263121000553

Kruk, M. (2021). Investigating dynamic relationships among individual difference variables in learning English as a foreign language in a virtual world. Springer. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-65269-2

Lantolf, J. P., Poehner, M. E., & Swain, M. (2018). Introduction. In J. P. Lantolf, M. E. Poehner, & M. Swain (Eds.), The Routledge handbook of sociocultural theory and second language development (pp. 1-20). Routledge. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315624747-1

Liu, H., & Song, X. (2021). Exploring “Flow” in young Chinese EFL learners’ online English learning activities. System, 96, 102425. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2020.102425

Pawlak, M. (2013). Researching grammar learning strategies: Combining the macro- and micro-perspective. In Ł. Salski, W. Szubko-Sitarek, & J. Majer (Eds.), Perspectives on foreign language learning (pp. 191-210). Łódź University Press. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18778/7969-032-9.15

Pawlak, M. (2020). Individual differences and good language teachers. In C. Griffiths, & Z. Tajeddin (Eds.), Lessons from good language teachers (pp. 121-132). Cambridge University Press. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108774390.013

Pawlak, M. (2022). Research into individual differences in SLA and CALL: Looking for intersections. Language Teaching Research Quarterly, 31, 200-233. DOI: https://doi.org/10.32038/ltrq.2022.31.14

Pawlak, M., Mystkowska-Wiertelak, A., & Bielak, J. (Eds.). (2016). Autonomy in second language learning: Managing the resources. Springer Nature. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-07764-2

Wen, Z. (2015). Working memory in second language acquisition and processing: The phonological/executive model. In Z. Wen, M. B. Mota, & A. McNeill (Eds.), Working memory in second language acquisition and processing (pp. 41-62). Multilingual Matters. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21832/9781783093595-007