ESL Classroom Dynamics: Towards a Discourse Processing Interpretation

Abstract

A consistent trend in theory and research on second language learning has been toward greater emphasis on the analysis of elements of background knowledge and discourse rather than on sentences. Two major kinds of approach, textual and ethnomethodological, can be identified within the context of this general trend. An outline of these approaches is presented, together with discussion of their major strengths and weaknesses. Some implications for ESL research, theory, and practice are reviewed. It is proposed that ESL classroom dynamics may be understood in terms of representative discourse-worlds and that responsibility for classroom discourse analysis should be encouraged in both ESL teachers and their students.