Understanding Interaction in the Second Language Classroom Context

Noriko Iwashita author Phung Dao author Mai Xuan Nhat Chi Nguyen author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Multilingual Matters

Published:7th Mar '25

Should be back in stock very soon

This paperback is available in another edition too:

Understanding Interaction in the Second Language Classroom Context cover

Overview of classroom interaction research in second language learning

This book provides an overview and analysis of the role that classroom interaction plays in instructed second language acquisition. The authors synthesise current state-of-the-art research on how classroom interaction benefits L2 learning, before discussing pedagogical implications and suggesting teaching activities.

This book provides an overview and analysis of the role that classroom interaction plays in instructed second language acquisition. The authors synthesise current state-of-the-art research on how classroom interaction benefits L2 learning through the lens of three theoretical perspectives: cognitive-interactionist (with a focus on how conversational interaction may promote L2 processing and learning), sociocultural (which assumes that cognitive advances are located within social interaction) and language socialisation (which examines how learners position themselves and are positioned in social interaction, and how they establish their membership in the target language community). They go on to critically examine how findings from this research can be applied to classroom practice in diverse L2 settings; they then provide pedagogical implications and suggested teaching activities to support L2 teachers and teacher educators in harnessing the benefits of classroom interaction for L2 learning.

This book will be invaluable for language educators and researchers alike. Iwashita, Dao, and Nguyen have achieved a comprehensive yet accessible synthesis of contemporary research into interaction for classroom-based L2 learning. They excel in their cutting-edge coverage of theories and studies across a wealth of classroom contexts. A masterpiece and a must-read!

* Lourdes Ortega, Georgetown University, USA *

This exciting new book on instructed second language acquisition by Iwashita, Dao and Nguyen provides a comprehensive review of this field, outlining the 'big picture’ of how interaction in the classroom affects the language learning process. It is inclusive of different theoretical positions, outlining a range of contexts and research methodologies, and unusually, including accounts of research within the affective domain (e.g. teacher beliefs and learner engagement).

* Rhonda Oliver, Curtin University, Australia *

The book, offering accessible strategies supported by theory and data, makes a strong case for integrating linguistic and sociocultural development into the classroom. By doing so, it contributes meaningfully to discussions of language diversity, social justice, and equity in education, which aligns closely with GALE’s mission to support inclusive teaching and equity in professional practice.

* Lily Thukral, Shirayuri University, Japan, GALE Journal, Vol. 18 (2026) *

This text provides an excellent overview of (instructed) second language acquisition research of the last several decades. The authors thoroughly explain key theoretical concepts and results of some of the most significant empirical investigations in second language acquisition. Each chapter is very clearly organized and follows a standard structure that is easy to follow. While structured as a unified volume, most of the chapters could easily standalone as supplemental readings to introduce young researchers and teachers to new and important concepts in language acquisition and language teaching.

* Alisha Reaves, Towson University, USA, LINGUIST List 36.24

ISBN: 9781800410381

Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 12mm

Weight: 330g

220 pages