Theories of Second Language Learning

What do we really know about how people learn a second language? This advanced seminar examines major theories of language learning, from behaviorist and innatist models to sociocultural and dynamic systems approaches. Students will critically evaluate research traditions, assess the cognitive and social factors that shape acquisition, and reflect on applications to pedagogy and policy. A central focus will be questioning what we think we know about language learning and how theories reshape those assumptions. Case studies from German and other world languages provide the foundation for discussion and application.