On the need for a new understanding of language and its development

Authors

  • Diane Larsen-Freeman University of Michigan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/japl.v3.i3.281

Keywords:

chaos/complexity theory, dynamic systems theory, emergence, self-organizing, inert knowledge problem, connectionism, usage-based theories

Abstract

Applied linguists have quite naturally turned to linguists’ theories for their conceptions of language. Until recently, dominant theories in linguistics have encouraged applied linguists to view language as an abstract, static system. However, static views of language are not especially helpful when it comes to language teaching, language acquisition and other areas that applied linguists study. An alternative view, one inspired by Chaos/Complexity Theory (C/CT), sees the language resources of speakers as a dynamic network of language-using patterns – emergent, mutable and self-organizing – and their development within language learners not as an act of conformity, but rather as continuing dynamic adaptedness to a specific context. C/CT is centrally concerned with describing the mutual constitution of a system and its development, thus overcoming the dualistic thinking that is fostered by considering language apart from its access or use. It also counters the tendency to portray learner language as being an incomplete and deficient version of native speaker language. Finally, it addresses the ‘inert knowledge problem’, which results when language is taught as a system of fixed rules. There are a number of new theories that are much more compatible with a C/CT way of viewing language, and applied linguists would do well to consider them.

Author Biography

  • Diane Larsen-Freeman, University of Michigan

    Diane Larsen-Freeman is Professor of Education, Professor of Linguistics, and Research Scientist at the University of Michigan. She is interested in second language acquisition, English grammar, language teaching, and language teacher education, and has spoken and written a great deal about these topics. Her most recent book (2008) is Complex Systems and Applied Linguistics, co-authored with Lynne Cameron and published by Oxford University Press.

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Published

2015-09-14

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

Larsen-Freeman, D. (2015). On the need for a new understanding of language and its development. Journal of Applied Linguistics and Professional Practice, 3(3), 281-304. https://doi.org/10.1558/japl.v3.i3.281

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