Theorizing and Analyzing Agency in Second Language Learning

Interdisciplinary Approaches

Edited by Ping Deters, Dr. Xuesong (Andy) Gao, Elizabeth R. Miller, Gergana Vitanova

Publication date:

05 December 2014

Publisher

Multilingual Matters

Dimensions:

234x156mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781783092895

This book showcases how language learner agency can be understood and researched from varying perspectives by providing, for the first time, a collection of diverse approaches in one volume. The volume is organised into three main sections:the first sections offers an introduction to varying theoretical approaches to agency; the second section presents analyses of agency in a variety of empirical studies; and the third section focuses on the pedagogical implications of data-based studies of agency. The volume includes the work of researchers working in languages including English (ESL and EFL), Greek, Spanish, Swedish, Italian, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati and Truku (an indigenous language in Taiwan) and with both child and adult language learners. This collection will serve as a key reference for researchers of language learning and teaching, sociolinguistics and language and identity.

1. Gergana Vitanova, Elizabeth R. Miller, Xuesong (Andy) Gao, Ping Deters: Introduction to Theorizing and Analyzing Agency in Second Language Learning: Interdisciplinary Approaches
Section I. Theoretical Approaches to Agency
2. David Block: Structure, Agency, Individualization and the Critical Realist Challenge
3. Hannele Dufva and Mari Aro: Dialogical View on Language Learners’ Agency: Connecting Intrapersonal with Interpersonal
4. Patricia A. Duff and Liam Doherty: Examining Agency in (Second) Language Socialization Research
5. Chatwara Suwannamai Duran: Theorizing Young Language Learner Agency through the Lens of Multilingual Repertoires: A Socio-Cultural Perspective
6. Carola Mick: Sociological Approaches to Second Language Learning and Agency
Section II. Analytical Approaches to Investigating Agency
7. Sangeeta Bagga-Gupta: Agency, Agents and Artifacts. Accounting Practices and Identity Performances
8. Hayriye Kayi-Aydar: “He’s the Star!”: Positioning as a Tool of Analysis to Investigate Agency and Access to Learning Opportunities in a Classroom Environment
9. Adnan Ajsic: ‘Crossing’ into the L2 and Back: Agency and Ultimate Attainment by a Post-Critical Period Learner
10. Peter William Stanfield: Analyzing Learner Agency: a Place-Based Approach
Section III. Pedagogical Practices for Agency
11. Christina Gkonou: Agency, Anxiety, and Activity: Understanding the Classroom Behaviour of EFL Learners
12. Próspero N. García: Verbalizing in the Second Language Classroom: Exploring the Role of Agency in the Internalization of Grammatical Categories
13. Theron Muller: Critical Discourse Analysis in a Medical English Course: Examining Learner Agency through Student Written Reflections
14. Man-Chiu Amay Lin: Towards a Relationship-Oriented Framework: Revisiting Agency by Listening to the Voices of Children
15. Anna de Fina: Afterword

This volume thoroughly surveys the different approaches to the question of agency in second-language learning. A particularly strong point of this volume is the range of learning contexts that are
presented. This focus on a range of unique learning experiences emphasizes the richness of agency as an area of research in second-language learning. This book will be a valuable resource for postgraduate students, teachers, and researchers of agency, identity, and second-language learning.