Second Language Acquisition: A General Overview

Authors

  • Silvana de Biaggi Middle East University
  • Cinthya Samojluk Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies
  • Safary Wa-Mbaleka Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

Keywords:

Second language acquisition, ESL, EFL, TESOL, theories, review

Abstract

Second language acquisition (SLA) is known as both the process of learning an additional language and the field where issues pertaining to the teaching and learning of a second language (L2) are discussed (Ellis, 2010; Nunan, 2001). The field of SLA has experienced exponential growth over the past 3 decades. As Ellis (2010) states it rightly, SLA is “now an established discipline” (p. 182). This is evident in the growth of SLA research, SLA textbooks, and increase in number of theories, principles, and strategies that are found in the field of SLA. While this tremendous advance has been heavily demonstrated particularly in the United States, growth seems sparing in other countries. In fact, few are higher education institutions that offer Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) programs where SLA courses should normally be offered. Without proper knowledge and understanding of how L2s are taught and learned, it is quite likely that teaching English to nonnative speakers in these non-English speaking countries is negatively affected. This paper synthesizes important topics pertaining to SLA to help TESOL experts with some fundamental understanding.

Author Biographies

  • Silvana de Biaggi, Middle East University

    MAEd-TESOL
    Instructor, Middle East University
    Beirut, Lebanon

  • Cinthya Samojluk, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

    MAEd-TESOL
    Independent Scholar, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies
    Silang, Philippines

  • Safary Wa-Mbaleka, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

    EdD, PhD
    Associate Professor, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies
    Silang, Philippines

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Published

2016-04-01

How to Cite

Second Language Acquisition: A General Overview. (2016). International Forum Journal, 19(1), 35-60. https://journals.aiias.edu/info/article/view/107

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