A new perspective on foreign language aptitude research: building and supporting a case for "working memory as language aptitude"
(original) (raw)

Autores

Zhisheng Wen Hong Kong Shue Yan University
Peter Skehan Chinese University of Hong Kong

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/2175-8026.2011n60p015

Resumo

The present paper proposes and argues a case for incorporating the working memory (WM) construct as a component of foreign language aptitude. As such, it first briefly reviews previous research on foreign language aptitude, which lays the ground for the proposal. Then, by drawing on recent research from both the fields of cognitive psychology and second language acquisition, the paper will summarize the key representative theoretical models, major claims and empirical evidence supporting the role of WM in different aspects of L2 learning, such as listening, reading, speaking, writing and interpreting, thus rendering the proposal a feasible blueprint for future research on foreign language aptitude.

Biografia do Autor

Zhisheng Wen, Hong Kong Shue Yan University

Edward Zhisheng Wen, is currently a full-time lecturer in Department of English Language and Literature, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, HKSAR, China. Meanwhile, he is completing his PhD dissertation on “Effects of working memory capacity on L2 speech planning and performance” at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Previously, Mr. Wen had worked as a lecturer of College English in South China Normal University (Guangzhou, China) for several years. His main research interests include: Second Language Acquisition, Psycholinguistics, Task-based Language Teaching and Learning. He has published some research papers on working memory and language aptitude in academic journals in China.

Peter Skehan, Chinese University of Hong Kong

"Peter Skehan, PhD is currently a full-time professor in Department of English, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, HKSAR, China. Prof. Skehan had previously worked as a professor at Thames Valley University and King’s College, University of London. His main research interests include individual differences in second language learning, task-based language teaching and learning, and language testing. Prof. Skehan has published widely in the field of applied linguistics and his papers have appeared in such journals as Language Learning, SSLA, Applied Linguistics and Language Teaching etc. He has also published two monographs, including “Individual differences in second language learning” (1989, with Arnold) and “A cognitive approach to language learning” (1998, with Oxford University Press, which won the Kenneth W. Mildenberger Prize) and edited one book (with M. Bygate & M. Swain) “Researching Pedagogic Tasks: Second Language Learning, Teaching and Testing (2002, with Longman)."

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A new perspective on foreign language aptitude research: building and supporting a case for "working memory as language aptitude" (original) (raw)