Open AccessLanguage Learnability: An Overview of the Issues
Author(s) -
John Archibald
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
tesl canada journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1925-8917
pISSN - 0826-435X
DOI - 10.18806/tesl.v11i1.625
Subject(s) - learnability , second language acquisition , comprehension approach , linguistics , language acquisition , grammar , applied linguistics , psychology , developmental linguistics , language education , computer science , cognitive science , artificial intelligence , philosophy
In this paper, I summarize an approach to language acquisition that has become extremely influential: language learnability. I argue that knowledge of this approach is beneficial to second language teachers. I present the major characteristics of the principles and parameters model of grammar as it has been applied to second language acquisition. The influence of philosophy (theories of mind), psychology (theories of learning), and linguistics (theories of language) is outlined. I conclude by discussing the research and pedagogic implications of this discipline.