Complex, not complicated: Diane Larsen Freeman on Complexity Theory in Applied Linguistics (Part 2)

Summary

In this transcript, the speaker explores the concept of language learning as a dynamic, emergent process, influenced by complexity theory. Referencing James Gleick’s perspective on non-linearity, the speaker suggests that language users, through repeated interaction, generate patterns that evolve and adapt over time. This view challenges the idea that learner language is deficient compared to native speaker language. Instead, it emphasizes that language development is an ongoing, collaborative process between learners, teachers, and classrooms, where meaning and grammar emerge through use and interaction.

Takeaways

• 😀 The act of playing a game can be seen as a way to change the rules, emphasizing the non-linearity of phenomena.
• 😀 Language use emerges through interaction and iteration, meaningfully changing grammar and usage over time.
• 😀 Emergence, a concept from complexity theory, suggests that patterns in language emerge through user interaction rather than following fixed rules.
• 😀 The traditional view of learner language as deficient compared to native speaker language is challenged, as learners themselves create language patterns.
• 😀 Language development is an ongoing, non-ending process that evolves through continuous interaction between learners, teachers, and classrooms.
• 😀 The patterns of language emerge from the interaction of learners and teachers, rather than from a rigid adherence to grammatical rules.
• 😀 Language is created by users for their own purposes, not merely a set of rules to be memorized or followed.
• 😀 Grammar is not just a set of rules; it's an evolving concept shaped by users' interactions with the language.
• 😀 Learners' use of language in real-world interactions contributes to the creation of meaningful patterns, not simply the application of prescribed rules.
• 😀 The iterative process of language use, influenced by learners and teachers alike, leads to the dynamic development of language over time.

Q & A

What is the main idea behind James Gleick's statement about playing the game?

James Gleick suggests that playing the game can change the rules, specifically referring to the non-linearity of phenomena. This metaphor highlights how actions, such as using language, can influence and alter underlying systems or rules.

How does the concept of 'emergence' relate to language development?

The concept of emergence, derived from complexity theory, suggests that language develops through the interaction of learners, teachers, and users. Over time, patterns emerge as a result of continuous, iterative interaction, and these patterns shape the language itself.

What does the speaker mean by 'grammar in the mind of the language user'?

The speaker uses 'grammar in the mind of the language user' as a metaphor for how individuals internalize and use language rules. It's not strictly about formal grammar, but how users adapt and create language through meaningful interaction.

What is the speaker's view on learner language versus native speaker language?

The speaker challenges the traditional view that learner language is inferior to native speaker language. Instead, they argue that learners create their own patterns, just as native speakers do, making their language valid and meaningful in its own right.

How does the speaker connect language learning to the concept of non-linearity?

Language learning is non-linear because it doesn’t follow a predictable, step-by-step process. Instead, it develops organically through repeated, iterative interactions between the learner and their environment, leading to the emergence of new patterns over time.

What role do teachers and classrooms play in language development, according to the speaker?

Teachers and classrooms are integral to language development as they facilitate the ongoing, dynamic interaction between learners. This interaction creates new patterns of language use and helps drive the emergence of language over time.

What does the speaker mean by the 'endless' process of language development?

The speaker views language development as an endless, ongoing process that evolves as learners interact with each other, with teachers, and with their environment. This constant exchange leads to the continuous creation of language.

How does complexity theory relate to the development of language in learners?

Complexity theory explains language development as a product of complex systems where small, iterative interactions between learners and their environment lead to larger, emergent patterns of language use. This process reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of language.

What is meant by 'deficient' learner language in the context of the transcript?

The term 'deficient' refers to the belief that learner language is somehow incomplete or incorrect compared to native speaker language. The speaker challenges this idea, arguing that learner language is simply different and still valid as it creates its own emerging patterns.

What is the significance of 'meaningful use' of language in the transcript?

'Meaningful use' refers to how language is used purposefully by learners for communication. The speaker emphasizes that this meaningful interaction helps shape and redefine language, allowing it to evolve through user-created patterns.