Disfluency and Proficiency in Second Language Speech Production

This book explores the concept of disfluency in speech production, particularly in the context of second language acquisition, and argues that acquiring target language norms is essential for being recognized as fluent by fellow speakers. It examines the psycholinguistic research in this area and applies a sociolinguistic lens to examine how a learner's social and educational background impacts the types of disfluencies they produce.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realm of disfluency in speech production, particularly in the context of second language acquisition. By drawing upon examples from learner speech across three proficiency levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced), the author compellingly argues that acquiring target language norms for managing disfluency is paramount to achieving fluency in a language by fellow speakers. The book begins with a thorough survey of psycholinguistic research in this field, providing a foundation for the subsequent analysis.

Next, the author employs a sociolinguistic lens to examine the profound impact of a learner's social and educational background on the types of disfluencies they produce. Through this lens, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between language proficiency, social context, and cultural factors that shape speech production.

The book is of immense interest to readers engaged in fields such as (applied) linguistics, second language acquisition, psychology, and education. It offers valuable insights into the complexities of speech production, shedding light on the strategies learners employ to overcome fluency barriers and achieve linguistic competence. By exploring the relationship between disfluency, social context, and cultural factors, the book provides valuable guidance for educators, language practitioners, and researchers seeking to better understand and address the challenges faced by language learners.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of second language acquisition and linguistics. It offers a wealth of knowledge and insights into the complexities of disfluency, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to its occurrence and the strategies learners can employ to overcome it. Through its engaging and informative approach, the book empowers readers to better support and facilitate language learning in diverse contexts.

Weight: 529g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031124877
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022