Complex, not complicated: Diane Larsen Freeman on Complexity Theory in Applied Linguistics (Part 1)

Summary

The speaker reflects on how the way we conceptualize language profoundly affects teaching approaches. They discuss the 'inert knowledge problem,' where learners acquire knowledge that doesn't transfer to real-world use. Inspired by complexity theory, the speaker suggests viewing language as a dynamic, adaptive system that evolves through interaction, much like other complex systems. This view contrasts with static models and may help address the inert knowledge problem, though not entirely solve it. The discussion emphasizes iterative learning and the role of dynamic systems theory in understanding language acquisition and use.

Takeaways

• 😀 Language teaching is heavily influenced by how we perceive language and the subject matter itself.
• 😀 How we think about language directly informs the methods we choose for teaching it.
• 😀 The 'inert knowledge problem' refers to the challenge of learners acquiring knowledge that they cannot apply outside the classroom or in future lessons.
• 😀 Viewing language as a dynamic, complex, and adaptive system could help address the inert knowledge problem.
• 😀 Complexity theory, which studies complex dynamic adaptive systems, provides valuable insights for understanding language learning.
• 😀 Language is an inherently complex, nonlinear system, and this characteristic makes it unique in terms of learning and teaching.
• 😀 The act of using language repeatedly and iteratively allows it to evolve and emerge in a dynamic fashion.
• 😀 Language is not static; it is continually shaped and reshaped through repeated interactions.
• 😀 Dynamic systems theory, which describes language as a complex dynamic system, aligns with current views on language and its role in teaching.
• 😀 The idea that the rules of a game can change as it is played can be applied to how language evolves and adapts through use.

Q & A

What is the main point of the professor's argument about language teaching?

The professor argues that how we picture language influences the way we choose to teach it. Our understanding of language directly informs our approach to teaching it.

What does the 'inert knowledge problem' refer to?

The inert knowledge problem refers to the issue where language learners acquire knowledge in the classroom but cannot use it effectively outside the classroom or even in subsequent lessons. This knowledge remains 'inactive' or 'inert.'

How does the professor propose to address the inert knowledge problem?

The professor suggests that viewing language as a more dynamic system, influenced by complexity theory, might help address the inert knowledge problem. This approach would encourage learners to use language actively and contextually.

What is complexity theory and how does it relate to language?

Complexity theory is the study of complex, dynamic, adaptive systems. Language is seen as such a system because it is constantly evolving, nonlinear, and influenced by interactions. This theory provides insights into how language develops and adapts over time.

What is a key insight from James Galax's book mentioned in the transcript?

James Galax writes that 'the act of playing the game has a way of changing the rules.' This idea resonates with how language evolves through repeated use and interaction, as language rules and norms can shift in the process.

What does the professor mean by language being 'dynamic'?

The professor suggests that language is not static; it emerges and adapts through repeated use. It is a dynamic, ever-changing system that evolves based on the interactions and context in which it is used.

What does 'iteratively' mean in the context of language use?

In the context of language use, 'iteratively' refers to the repeated, ongoing nature of language practice. Over time, through repeated interactions, language is refined, adapted, and reshaped.

How does dynamic systems theory apply to language teaching?

Dynamic systems theory applies to language teaching by suggesting that language is not learned in a fixed, linear way but through ongoing, adaptive processes. This theory encourages teaching methods that support continuous language development rather than rigid, rule-based approaches.

What does the professor mean by 'language emerges in a dynamic fashion'?

The professor means that language develops through interaction and repetition, rather than being static. Its evolution depends on how it is used in real-world contexts, and this process is constantly in flux.

What is the 'zeitgeist' mentioned in the transcript, and how does it relate to language?

The 'zeitgeist' refers to the prevailing cultural and intellectual climate of the time. The professor suggests that viewing language as a dynamic, complex system aligns with the contemporary zeitgeist, reflecting how modern ideas emphasize change and adaptability.