Psychology of Language Learning

Acculturation Model by John H. Schumann

• Acculturation is the integration of a second language learner with a target language community/culture, acquired from infancy.

Social Variables

• 8 social variables affect the quality of contact between second language learners and the target language community:
  • Social dominance: When the English Language Learning (ELL) group is superior to the target language (TL) group, they may resist learning the target language.
  • Assimilation, Preservation, and Adaptation: ELL group's integration strategy with the TL group, influencing language acquisition.
  • Social institutions: The more shared institutions between ELL and TL groups, the better conditions for second language acquisition.
  • Cohesiveness: A cohesive ELL group tends to remain separate from the TL group.
  • Congruence: Similar cultures facilitate social contact and L2 learning.
  • Attitude: Positive attitudes between ELL and TL groups facilitate L2 learning.
  • Intended length of residence: Longer stays in the target language environment enhance motivation to learn.

Psychological Variables

• 4 psychological variables affect language acquisition:
  • Ego boundaries: L2 learner's readiness to accept a new identity in the target language community.
  • Language shock and cultural shock: Overcoming these shocks is essential for language acquisition.
  • Motivation: Two types of motivational tendencies:
    • Integrative motivation: Acquiring a second language to communicate with the target language community.
    • (No explicit mention of the second type)

Criticisms of the Acculturation Model

• Schumann did not specify the combinations and levels of social and psychological factors to predict language outcome.
• The relative significance of each psychological factor is unclear.