Chinese as a Second Language: Research & Implications

This course introduces basic second language learning theories and surveys the research on the acquisition and learning of Chinese as a second language. The topics include the acquisition of different aspects of the Chinese language, including phonology, lexicon, syntax, pragmatics, orthography, and culture. The course also covers learners’ development of the four language skills, namely listening, speaking, reading, and writing. We will also discuss issues related to different learners of Chinese, such as heritage students and advanced learners. Through critically reading the empirical studies, students will gain an understanding of second language acquisition research in general and also issues that are specific to the learning of Chinese. The goals of this course are twofold: 1) to help students synthesize major research findings in each sub-field, and 2) to guide students to make informed pedagogical choices in future language teaching.