Sociocultural Theory: Creating Conditions for L2 Development

Sociocultural Theory is an exploration of empirical studies that address language instruction, assessment, and teacher education through the lens of Vygotskian sociocultural theory. This book is a unique and up-to-date look at a series of empirical projects organized around the principles and concepts of sociocultural theory. Applied linguistics professors James P. Lantolf and Matthew E. Poehner address three broader topics framed within the principles and concepts of Vygotskian sociocultural theory: concept-based language instruction, dynamic assessment, and teacher education. The chapters report on empirical studies focusing on learner development of abilities in English, Spanish, Japanese, and French. Specific sections also investigate grammar instruction, literacy, translanguaging, a hidden dimension of oral proficiency assessment, computerized assessment, the role of emotion in teacher development, use of drama and play to promote language development, pragmatics, and more. An innovative analysis of sociocultural theory and its implications, the book will also be of interest to those exploring applied linguistics, language development, language pedagogy and assessment, and teacher development.