The role of transfer of learning in multilingual instruction and development

Abstract

My major research interests lie in multilingual language acquisition and the use of qualitative methods as data collection tools. The selection of this article for inclusion in the present volume was dictated by the fact that it bridges my earlier research in multlinguality and the use of simultaneous introspection as the main research method with my present interest in the same topic investigated by means of narrative texts and emphasizing the role of affectivity of the multilingual user and learner of varied languages. Additionally, the present text demonstrates that investigating second and further language acquisition/learning needs to be studied not only on the level of language production and cross‑linguistic consultations performed by learners but from a multidisciplinary perspective. More precisely, this text demonstrates how the findings of educational psychology can inform research on language acquisition and more importantly contribute to classroom practices in the context of formal instruction for multilingual language learners. More recent studies take into consideration individual learner differences regarding affectivity.