Research methodology in contextually- based second language research

Abstract

We suggest a combined research methodology for studying SLA in real-life and important contexts, a methodology sensitive to the demands of such contexts. For studying IL learning in context, our suggested methodology combines and integrates aspects from three fields: grounded ethnography in ethnomethodol ogy ; subject-specialist informant procedures in language for specific purposes; and rhetorical/grammatical strategies in discourse analysis. We first present evidence for the importance of devising a research approach to contexually based SLA. Then we sketch the suggested research methodology and present two extended case studies which illustrate the methodology. We view such research as complimentary to universal approaches to core IL grammar. Finally, we sketch our theoretical approach, showing a possible link between research in universal and contextually-based SLA.