Identity in SLA research

Based on the articles we raed for today, I belive the importance of identity research in WE framework. If you are interested in identity research in language learning, I suggest you to read the following article. It is an important article as it suggests the irrelevancy of a single dicthonomy, nonnative-native, to approach identity. It also empahsize the multiplicity and changing nature od identity just as we see it in World Englishes framework I want to share my reflections on this article.

The article is rich in terms of its discussion of identity and identity resrach in SLA. The example researches provided in the article are illustrative in addressing the postmodern research trend. Before this new paradigm, identity was considered very narrowly as if it only consisted of native and non-native. However, identity is not fixed and individuals undergo identity construction processes. Specifically, language learners experience changes in their social, cultural and symbolic capital, which refers to prestige, fame and reputation. When the langauge learners studying abroad continously negotiate differences and resolve ambivalence and then appears to the extent that this process is consciously shaped by the learners.

It is also important to mention that biological factors such as age, gender and the other factors that seem to be the fixed fcators in identity construction are not actually fixed by rather multilayered and shaped by social interaction and depends on how we define ourselves by interacting with others.

Block, D. (2007). The rise of identity in SLA research, post Wegner (1997). The modern Language Journal, 91, focus issues 863-876.