Beyond Disfluency: The interplay of speech, gesture, and interaction

This book explores the complexities of human multimodal production and interactive processes by evaluating fluency across speech, gesture, and interaction, using a large video dataset in French and English. It introduces a fresh perspective on disfluency by integrating visual-gestural features.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 17 January 2024
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Co

This groundbreaking book takes a tridimensional approach to (dis)fluency, delving into the evaluation of fluency across three distinct dimensions: speech, gesture, and interaction. By drawing upon an extensive video dataset encompassing diverse languages and speech genres in French and English, the present research ventures beyond the traditional production-oriented models of so-called 'disfluency phenomena.' Its primary objective is to unravel the intricate complexities of human multimodal production and interactive processes. This work is of utmost relevance to linguists, communication scholars, and researchers, aligning with the latest trends in Second Language Acquisition, Interactional Linguistics, and Gesture studies. It introduces a novel perspective on disfluency by incorporating visual-gestural features, including hand gestures, gaze, and facial expressions, captured in situated interactions.

The study employs a comprehensive framework that encompasses various theoretical perspectives and methodologies. It integrates insights from cognitive linguistics, discourse analysis, and interactional linguistics, providing a rich theoretical foundation for understanding the dynamics of (dis)fluency. Through the analysis of video data, the research sheds light on the interplay between linguistic elements, nonverbal cues, and social context, unveiling the intricate mechanisms that shape fluency in real-world communication.

One of the key contributions of this book is its innovative integration of visual-gestural features into the study of (dis)fluency. By capturing and analyzing these nonverbal cues, the authors provide a more holistic understanding of the factors that contribute to fluency disorders and their remediation. The use of video data allows for a detailed examination of the temporal and spatial aspects of communication, enabling researchers to observe the micro-expressions, gestures, and body movements that accompany speech. This multisensory approach provides valuable insights into the complex processes underlying fluency production and interaction.

The findings of this research have significant implications for language teaching, language therapy, and applied linguistics. Teachers can utilize the insights gained from this study to develop more effective teaching strategies that address fluency disorders and promote optimal language learning outcomes. Language therapists can employ the visual-gestural features analyzed in this research to develop targeted interventions that enhance fluency and communication skills in individuals with communication disorders. Applied linguists can use the findings to develop more effective communication strategies and tools that account for the multimodal nature of communication in various contexts.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking book pioneers a tridimensional approach to (dis)fluency, offering a comprehensive evaluation of fluency across speech, gesture, and interaction. By integrating visual-gestural features and employing a multidisciplinary framework, the research provides valuable insights into the complexities of human multimodal production and interactive processes. The findings have significant implications for language teaching, language therapy, and applied linguistics, and contribute to the ongoing development of our understanding of fluency in the modern world.

Weight: 630g
ISBN-13: 9789027214508