Lessons from Exceptional Language Learners Who Have Achieved Nativelike Proficiency: Motivation, Cognition and Identity

This book explores the autobiographical stories of language learners who achieve native-like proficiency, offering insights into their pathways to success. It examines factors such as motivational vision, international posture, identity, endurance, and musical ability, and investigates whether these successes can be repeated. It is valuable for language teachers and researchers in language learner psychology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

Some language learners overcome the odds and achieve native-like proficiency, even without obvious heritage links or extensive exposure to the L2 environment before adulthood. This captivating book delves into the autobiographical accounts of these remarkable learners, providing a window into their experiences and offering valuable insights into their pathways to success. Through a comprehensive analysis, the authors explore a diverse range of potentially relevant topics, including motivational vision, international posture, identity issues, endurance, and even musical ability. They examine whether these achievements can be replicated by others and offer valuable insights for language teachers interested in fostering learner motivation and understanding the factors that contribute to high-level ultimate attainment. Additionally, this book will appeal to researchers in language learner psychology, particularly those exploring language learning motivation, identity, and narrative inquiry.

Introduction:
Language learning is a complex and challenging process that often requires a significant investment of time, effort, and dedication. While some learners may have natural language abilities or extensive exposure to the L2 environment before adulthood, others face significant barriers to achieving native-like proficiency. This book seeks to explore the stories of language learners who have triumphed against all odds and achieved native-like proficiency, despite not having obvious heritage links or spending extended periods of time in the L2 environment pre-adulthood.

Motivational Vision:
One of the key factors that contributes to language learner success is a strong motivational vision. These learners have a clear understanding of their goals and a strong desire to achieve them. They are often driven by a passion for the language and culture and are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to reach their aspirations. Motivational vision can help learners stay focused and motivated, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.

International Posture:
Another important factor that contributes to language learner success is an international posture. These learners are open to new experiences, cultures, and ways of thinking. They are willing to take risks and try new things, which can help them develop a broader understanding of the language and culture. International posture can also help learners build relationships with native speakers, which can provide valuable opportunities for practice and feedback.

Identity Issues:
Language learners often face identity issues as they navigate the complexities of learning a new language and culture. They may struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and insecurity, which can impact their motivation and confidence. However, language learners who are able to embrace their identity and celebrate their differences can find strength and resilience in their journey.

Endurance:
Language learning is a long and arduous journey that requires perseverance and resilience. Language learners who are able to endure the ups and downs of the learning process and stay committed to their goals are more likely to succeed. Endurance can help learners build resilience and perseverance, which can be valuable in other areas of their lives.

Musical Ability:
While musical ability is not a prerequisite for language learning success, some language learners have found that their musical abilities have helped them in their language learning journey. Musical ability can enhance cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and processing speed, which can be beneficial in language learning. Additionally, musical ability can provide a sense of joy and fulfillment, which can help learners stay motivated and engaged in their language learning.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, some language learners overcome the odds and achieve native-like proficiency, even without obvious heritage links or extensive exposure to the L2 environment before adulthood. These learners have a strong motivational vision, an international posture, embrace their identity, demonstrate endurance, and may have musical abilities. By exploring the autobiographical stories of these learners, this book provides valuable insights into their pathways to success and offers practical strategies for language teachers interested in fostering learner motivation and understanding the factors that contribute to high-level ultimate attainment. Additionally, this book will appeal to researchers in language learner psychology, particularly those exploring language learning motivation, identity, and narrative inquiry.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 531 x 195 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800412453