Linguistic structure with processing in second language research: is a 'unified theory' possible?

• Published in: Second Language Research Vol. 20; no. 1; pp. 77 - 94
• Main Authors: Selinker, Larry, Kim, Dae-Eun, Bandi-Rao, Shoba
• Format: Book Review Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Thousand Oaks, CA Arnold 01.01.2004; SAGE Publications; Hodder Arnold Journals, Turpin-Distribution, Stratton Business Park, Pegasus Drive, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8QB UK; Sage Publications Ltd
• Subjects: Advanced Students; Feedback; Fossilization; Grammar; Handbooks; Hypotheses; Interlanguage; Language Acquisition; Language Research; Learning Problems; Learning Theories; Learning transfer; Linguistics; Logic; Long Term Memory; Modularity; Phonetics; Review article; Second language learning; Second language learning theories; Second Languages; Theoretical linguistics; Theory; Universal grammar; New York; United States > US
• ISSN: 0267-6583; 1477-0326
• DOI: 10.1191/0267658304sr231oa

We investigate a unique attempt at working out a unified theory of second language acquisition (SLA), Carroll's 'Autonomous Induction Theory'. This theory integrates SLA traditions that often ignore each other and adds a learning theory where novel information gets created to resolve learning problems. Cognitive universais, modularity theory, universal grammar, inductive learning, initiation of learning, working and long-term memory, top-down and bottom-up processing, input, errors, correction and feedback, language transfer, fossilization, restructuring of interlanguage are amongst the concepts reviewed. This project thus spans multiple domains but leaves many unresolved issues. However, since these issues appear in one framework, we have found that altogether, it provides excellent discussion material for advanced students. Finally, we suggest some ways in which the burden of the denseness of the material might be lightened.