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Working Memory and Second Language Learning
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06 June 2016

This book introduces an approach to understanding and measuring working memory components and functions in second language learning, processing and development. It presents comprehensive, thorough and updated reviews of relevant literatures from cognitive sciences and applied linguistics. Drawing on multidisciplinary research, the book advocates a conceptual framework for integrating working memory theories with second language acquisition theories. An innovative theoretical model is also presented, which illuminates research studies investigating the distinctive roles of phonological and executive working memory as they relate to specific L2 learning domains, skills and processes. Theoretical and methodological implications of this integrative perspective are further elaborated and discussed within the specific realms of L2 task-based performance and language aptitude research.
As an applied linguist, academic and researcher who has English as an L2, interested in the nexus between working memory and L2 acquisition, I find this book to be a valuable reference in terms of its thorough and critical literature overview, the instructive P/E model and its inspiring implications for future research.
Zhisheng (Edward) Wen is Associate Professor at the School of Languages and Translation at Macao Polytechnic Institute (MPI). He has taught undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in applied linguistics and psycholinguistics at tertiary level for over 15 years. His research interests include second language acquisition and TESOL, psycholinguistics and cognitive science, as well as genre analysis and translation studies. He is a co-editor of Working Memory in Second Language Acquisition and Processing (2015, Multilingual Matters).
Foreword (By Peter Skehan)
Preface and Acknowledgements
List of Abbreviations
Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview
Part 1: Theoretical and Methodological Foundations
Chapter 2. Working Memory Theories and Models
Chapter 3. Working Memory Measures and Issues
Part 2: Research Syntheses of Working Memory in L1 and L2 Learning
Chapter 4. Working Memory in First Language Research
Chapter 5. Working Memory in Second Language Research
Part 3: Toward an Integrative Perspective on Working Memory and SLA
Chapter 6. An Integrative Framework for Working Memory and SLA Research
Chapter 7. Working Memory in L2 Acquisition and Processing: The P/E Model
Chapter 8. Working Memory and Tasks in L2 Speech Performance
Chapter 9. Working Memory and Language Aptitude in L2 Development
Chapter 10. Conclusions and Implications for Future Research
References
Index