Language Learning Environments : Spatial Perspectives on SLA

This book is the first in-depth examination of the application of theories of space to issues of second language learning. The author introduces the work of key thinkers on the theory of space and place and the relevance of their ideas to second language acquisition (SLA). He also outlines a new conceptual framework and set of terms for researching SLA that centre on the idea of 'language learning environments'. The book considers the spatial contexts in which language learning takes place and investigates how these spatial contexts are transformed into individualised language learning environments, as learners engage with a range of human and nonhuman, and physical and nonphysical, resources in their daily lives. Revisiting linguistics and language learning theory from a spatial perspective, the book demonstrates that the question of where people learn languages is equally as important as that of how they do so. This work is essential reading for any researcher wishing to research the role of the environment as an active player in SLA.

Phil Benson is Professor of Applied Linguistics and Director of the Multilingualism Research Centre at Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia. He has authored and edited several books spanning his research interests of second language acquisition, autonomy, language learning beyond the classroom and narrative enquiry. Most recently he co-edited Multilingual Sydney (Routledge, 2019).