Abstract
Among researchers in second language learning and acquisition theory, it is clear there is a broad range of positions on the question as to whether Universal Grammar (UG), and in particular the use of parameterization, is used in second language acquisition, or whether it is used only in first language acquisition. In this volume, several different methods of study are proposed to decide between the two positions. Travis has suggested that we look at the potentially differentiated patterns of language breakdown in the bilingual aphasic. Jenkins has proposed that we look for similar patterns in the dyslexic child, ideally via a twin study. Flynn has presented data from groups of English learners whose native languages (Chinese, Japanese, or Spanish) either shared or did not the parameter in question. Clahsen has provided contrastive data for L1 and L2 learners of the same language, German. Naturally we expect such different methods of study to provide converging evidence to answer our question. To the extent that they do not, it is worth considering how we may account for the apparent discrepancies.
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© 1988 Kluwer Academic Publishers
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Obler, L.K. (1988). Neurolinguistics and Parameter Setting. In: Flynn, S., O’Neil, W. (eds) Linguistic Theory in Second Language Acquisition. Studies in Theoretical Psycholinguistics, vol 8. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-2733-9_8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-2733-9_8
Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht
Print ISBN: 978-1-55608-085-2
Online ISBN: 978-94-009-2733-9
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