A Multidimensional Perspective on Individual Differences in Multilingual Learners' L2 Chinese Speech Production

Area of Science:

• Second Language Acquisition
• Applied Linguistics
• Sociolinguistics

Background:

• Previous research examined cognitive, affective, and socio-cultural factors in isolation.
• Limited studies have concurrently investigated these factors in L2 speaking development within a single cohort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively explore factors influencing L2 Chinese speaking ability.
• To systematically understand the interplay of cognitive, affective, and socio-cultural dimensions on L2 speech production.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Segalowitz's (2010) L2 speech production framework.
• Collected data via focus groups and semi-structured interviews.
• Involved 17 advanced L2 Chinese multilingual learners.

Main Results:

• Identified key influencing factors: age of acquisition, cognitive fluency, learning styles, speaking strategies, motivation, anxiety, self-efficacy, willingness-to-communicate, L2 cultural interest, communities, classes, and multilingualism.
• Speech performance and ability development are influenced by a combination of these factors.

Conclusions:

• L2 Chinese speech production ability develops from the synergy of cognitive, affective, and socio-cultural dimensions.
• Provides insights for L2 Chinese teachers and learners on supporting speech ability improvement.