NEW[ICU Research Institute Lecture Series (Language Education)] Innovative Research in Applied Linguistics and Sociolinguistics

A lecture series "ICU Research Institute Lecture Series (Language Education)" will be held on September 23rd.

Innovative Research in Applied Linguistics and Sociolinguistics
Topic on: Cutting-edge research in second language acquisition theory 

Objective: This series of lectures will present the state of the art of research in applied linguistics and sociolinguistics, which will contribute to the understanding of how people learn and process language in general.

Date and time: September 23, 2026 (Wednesday/Holiday) 10:10-12:50

Location: H-274

Sign-up form:  forms.gle/Qoq6bw8dQVsZzBx17 


Lecturers: 

2nd period 10:10-11:25 "How languages are learned and taught: SLA Research and Classroom"

Lecture by: Dr. Yuichi Suzuki (Waseda University)

Abstract:
Lightbown and Spada close How Languages are Learned with a warning: knowing more about SLA research “will not tell you what to do in your classroom tomorrow morning.” If that is so, why think at all about the link between how are learned and how they are taught? This talk revisits some of their “popular ideas” about how languages are learned and asks what the answers mean for English teaching in Japan.

3rd period 11:35-12:50　"Investigating the roles output in ISLA: Tracing the trajectory of learning from undergraduate seminar to doctoral dissertation"

Lecture by: Dr. Suga Kiyotaka (Takushoku University)

Abstract:
In this talk, we will review and discuss the roles of output practice in Instructed Second Language Acquisition (ISLA). Since Swain (1985) proposed Output Hypothesis, producing output (ie, speaking and writing) in second language (L2) has been widely recognized as crucial for developing L2 proficiency. However, previous research on L2 output practice has reported mixed results regarding how and to what extent output practice contributes to L2 acquisition. One critical limitation of previous output studies was the lack of processing data collected while learners are actually engaging in output practice. To address these theoretical and empirical issues, I will introduce my doctoral dissertation study, demonstrating how the processing data examined through eye-tracking and retrospective verbal reports (ie, stimulated recalls) can shed light on the detailed mechanisms and functions of output in the acquisition processes.
The second part of the talk will take the form of a workshop focusing on how you can develop your academic interests through class projects, undergraduate and graduate thesis, and other research projects. Looking back on my own academic trajectory from an undergraduate seminar course to my doctoral dissertation, I will share how I developed my research interests in L2 output and ISLA. The workshop will conclude with a hands-on brainstorming and discussion on how you can develop, refine, and expand your academic interests in your academic journey.