Mental Rehearsal as a Second Language Learning Strategy

Mental rehearsal is a somewhat ambiguous term in the literature of language acquisition, psychology, and second language learning. However, in second language learning it refers to an important strategic behavior involving silent covert practice of the other language, undertaken in relation to an or...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author Guerrero, Maria C. M. de
Format Report
LanguageEnglish
Published 01.03.1991
Subjects
College Students
Drills (Practice)
English (Second Language)
Higher Education
Inner Speech (Subvocal)
Interviews
Learning Strategies
Pattern Drills (Language)
Questionnaires
Rehearsal Strategies
Second Language Instruction
Second Language Learning
Spanish Speaking
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Summary:Mental rehearsal is a somewhat ambiguous term in the literature of language acquisition, psychology, and second language learning. However, in second language learning it refers to an important strategic behavior involving silent covert practice of the other language, undertaken in relation to an oral or written, future or past language task. A study helped clarify and expand the role of mental rehearsal as a second language learning strategy. A group of 426 native Spanish-speaking college students of English as a Second Language (ESL) was surveyed on its use of mental rehearsal or inner speech, and 9 subjects identified as consistently using mental rehearsal were interviewed in greater depth. Results suggest that mental rehearsal is a very broad strategy in which inner speech had several different roles and functions (ideational, mnemonic, textual, instructional, evaluative, affective, interpersonal, intrapersonal). Other findings included discovery of different types of mental rehearsal (task-related or self-related, spontaneous or deliberate), moments when rehearsal is most likely to occur, and benefits as perceived by participants. Raising student awareness of mental rehearsal as a powerful second language learning strategy and further research on the subject are recommended. (MSE)