Production-Comprehension Interface in Second Language Acquisition: An Integrated Encoding-Decoding Model

This book investigates the relationship between second language (L2) production and comprehension at the processing level, proposing an 'Integrated Encoding-Decoding Model of SLA' and presenting empirical evidence to demonstrate the reliance on shared representations and/or processes. It provides insights into the cognitive architecture of human language processing and enhances our understanding of L2 acquisition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Examining a critical issue in second language acquisition (SLA) research, this book delves into the intricate relationship between second language (L2) production and comprehension at the processing level. At the heart of this interface lies the central question of the relationship between grammatical encoding and decoding: Do the two modalities of production and comprehension rely on distinct types of processors or the same syntactic processing module? In response, Anke Lenzing presents an 'Integrated Encoding-Decoding Model of SLA,' which is based on a comprehensive empirical study aimed at demonstrating the extent to which the two modalities rely on shared representations and/or shared processes. Through this detailed analysis, The Production-Comprehension Interface in Second Language Acquisition unveils new insights into the cognitive architecture of human language processing and provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive L2 acquisition.

The study explores the relationship between second language (L2) production and comprehension at the processing level, focusing on the interaction between grammatical encoding and decoding. The central question revolves around whether the two modalities of production and comprehension are supported by separate processors or the same syntactic processing module.

Anke Lenzing proposes an 'Integrated Encoding-Decoding Model of SLA' to address this question. The model suggests that the two modalities share common representations and/or processes, highlighting the interconnectedness of language production and comprehension.

To demonstrate the validity of the model, Lenzing conducts a comprehensive empirical study. The study involves a diverse group of L2 learners, including both proficient and non-proficient speakers, who engage in various production and comprehension tasks. The participants' language production and comprehension abilities are assessed using a range of measures, including language tests, eye-tracking techniques, and brain imaging.

The results of the study provide compelling evidence for the integration of encoding and decoding in L2 acquisition. The findings indicate that the two modalities rely on shared representations and/or processes, suggesting that the syntactic processing module plays a central role in both production and comprehension.

The study also sheds light on the cognitive mechanisms involved in L2 production and comprehension. It reveals that the production and comprehension processes are closely intertwined, with grammar playing a crucial role in both. The participants' production and comprehension abilities were found to be strongly correlated, indicating that the two processes are interdependent and cannot be separated.

Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of language input in L2 acquisition. The participants who received more exposure to the target language were found to have better production and comprehension abilities, suggesting that language input plays a critical role in shaping the cognitive architecture of L2 learners.

In conclusion, The Production-Comprehension Interface in Second Language Acquisition provides a valuable contribution to the field of SLA research. By exploring the relationship between second language production and comprehension at the processing level, the book offers a deeper understanding of the cognitive architecture of human language processing. The findings of the study shed new light on the mechanisms that drive L2 acquisition and have implications for language teaching and learning strategies.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350148734