Word Searches in NNS–NS Interaction: Opportunities for Language Learning?

Abstract

A substantial portion of second language acquisition research focuses on interactional practices in which nonnative speakers (NNSs) engage. From various theoretical viewpoints, it is assumed that certain types of interactional practices, specifically those in which participants focus on linguistic form, may promote language learning. The question of whether, and under which conditions, such sequences can be seen as providing the NNS with language learning opportunities, is considered in a purely data‐driven way, applying conversation analysis (CA) as a method. The article considers one specific type of interactional practice, “word search” sequences, and opportunities for language learning that they may provide for NNSs on the basis of naturally occurring interactions between native speakers of Danish and Dutch speakers of Danish. It is argued that in order to distinguish between “language learning opportunities” and other types of interactional practices, the researcher needs to analyze the data in detail.