A Process of Identity Construction and Pragmatic Language Use in Second Language: Through Long-Term Studying Abroad

2021 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 16K16893
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Foreign language education
• Research Institution: Kwansei Gakuin University (2018-2021); Matsuyama University (2016-2017)
• Principal Investigator: NOGAMI Yoko 関西学院大学, 法学部, 准教授 (90733999)
• Project Period (FY): 2016-04-01 – 2022-03-31
• Keywords: identity / ELF / interactional analysis / narrative approach

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The study aimed to investigate 1) a process of L2 users' identity construction and 2) the relationships between L2 users' identity construction and pragmatic language use. The participants in the study were three Japanese users of English who took part in long-term study abroad programmes in different parts of the world. Regarding Aim 1, the study revealed that while L2 users interact with others, they utilize diverse linguistic, cultural and semiotic resources in the mutual process of constructing and negotiating identities. Meanwhile, as for Aim 2, a sufficient outcome was not produced within the limited research period. However, the study suggested an efficiency of integrating narrative approach and interactional analysis.

Free Research Field

応用言語学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究の主たる学術的意義は、長期留学における実際の言語使用という観点から、これまでのL2学習者のidentity研究を補完する点にあった。長期留学しているL2学習者がいかなる状況で、また具体的にどのように肯定的identity を構築しているのかを解明をすることは、いわゆるグローバル人材育成や大学教育における海外留学プログラムの改善に資する知見の導出につながるものと考えられる。この点に、本研究の社会的意義が認められる。