At the confluence of languages : language Transfer as a learning strategy

Abstract

Much of the current research into language learning and teaching is concerned with the phenomenon referred to as language transfer, especially with its negative effects in terms of second language acquisition and production. The advantages of language transfer, however, have received rather scant attention despite the fact that cross-linguistic influence may be seen as an effective language learning strategy. That is why this paper is to lay emphasis on the positive aspects of foreign languages already known to learners—on the previous knowledge of one’s second language that is likely to blaze a trail for both new vocabulary and grammatical structures in other languages. Based on a survey conducted among students, the paper aims to explore the instances of cross-linguistic influence as regards third language learners, as well as to evaluate their level of knowledge concerning language transfer and its didactic application.