Gesture and Multimodality in Second Language Acquisition: A Research Guide

This text provides a comprehensive guide to analyzing gesture and multimodality in second language learning and teaching, with expert contributions from around the world and a rich array of pedagogical material. It is a valuable resource for students, faculty, and researchers in applied linguistics, communications, education, and psychology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and timely text provides a comprehensive guide to analyzing gesture and multimodality in second language learning and teaching. Expert contributors from diverse global perspectives offer a theoretical foundation for each topic, accompanied by detailed descriptions of data collection and analysis methods across classroom, naturalistic, quasi-experimental, and experimental settings. Additionally, the book offers a wealth of supplementary pedagogical materials and highlights emerging areas for future research. This invaluable resource is designed to serve as a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and researchers in applied linguistics, communications, education, and psychology who are interested in gesture studies and multimodality in L2 learning and teaching.

Introduction:
The study of gesture and multimodality has gained significant attention in recent years, as researchers recognize the importance of nonverbal communication in language learning and teaching. Gesture plays a crucial role in conveying meaning, enhancing comprehension, and fostering social interaction, making it an essential component of language acquisition and communication. Multimodality, on the other hand, refers to the use of multiple modes of communication, such as voice, facial expressions, body language, and gestures, to convey information and express emotions.

Theoretical Basis:
The text begins by providing a theoretical framework for analyzing gesture and multimodality in second language learning and teaching. Expert contributors outline the key concepts, principles, and theories that underpin this field. They discuss the role of gesture in language production, comprehension, and social interaction, as well as the interplay between gesture and other modalities in language processing. The theoretical foundation is further strengthened by exploring the cultural and social dimensions of gesture, as well as the cognitive and neural mechanisms that underpin its production and perception.

Data Collection and Analysis Methods:
The book then delves into the various methods and techniques for collecting and analyzing gesture data. It provides detailed descriptions of data collection procedures across different settings, including classroom, naturalistic, quasi-experimental, and experimental contexts. The authors discuss the use of video recording, observational analysis, and self-report measures to capture and analyze gesture and multimodality. They also highlight the importance of ethical considerations and participant consent in data collection and analysis.

Ancillary Pedagogical Materials:
In addition to the theoretical and methodological insights, the book offers a rich array of ancillary pedagogical materials. These include examples, case studies, and exercises that facilitate the application of the theoretical concepts and methods discussed in the text. The materials are designed to help students understand and apply the knowledge gained from the book to real-world situations.

Areas for Future Study:
The book concludes by identifying areas ripe for future study in the field of gesture and multimodality in second language learning and teaching. The authors suggest potential research directions, such as exploring the relationship between gesture and language development, investigating the effects of gesture on language learning outcomes, and examining the role of gesture in different language genres and contexts.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this timely text offers a comprehensive and practical guide to analyzing gesture and multimodality in second language learning and teaching. Expert contributors from around the world provide a theoretical foundation, detailed descriptions of data collection and analysis methods, and a wealth of ancillary pedagogical materials. The book highlights emerging areas for future study and serves as a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and researchers in applied linguistics, communications, education, and psychology. By integrating gesture and multimodality into language learning and teaching practices, educators can enhance students' communication skills, promote deeper understanding, and foster more effective and engaging learning environments.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367558505