The way in which validity has been conceptualized has changed throughout the years. The focus in validation studies shifted from evaluating distinct components of validity to developing a comprehensive argument for the use and interpretations of test scores. The argument-based approach to validity incorporates the distinct types of the…

Few studies have considered the micro-analysis of written laughter in the digital world in its sequential context (beyond frequency and distribution). The present study fills this gap by examining "transcribed" laughter "[Chinese symbols omitted](haha)" in Chinese conversations on WeChat from a conversation analytic…

Identifying changing patterns of stability and variability is crucial when examining second language development (SLD) from a complex dynamic systems theory (CDST) perspective (Larsen-Freeman, 2020). By studying attractor states, or recurrent patterns of stability, light can be shed on the underlying dynamics of a complex dynamic system (van Geert…

Second language development can be viewed as a complex and dynamic process in which learners follow non-linear trajectories and develop their language over a period of time (Larsen-Freeman, 2006). Intrinsic to the view of Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST), a system is composed of hierarchical, interdependent subcomponents (learner, learner…

From a complex dynamic systems (CDST) perspective, language is understood as a dynamic system comprised of subsystems that change and develop over time in response to learner-internal and -external factors (Verspoor et al., 2008). Accordingly, language development is seen as a process responsive to the dynamic interaction between the learner and…

Adopting Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST) in Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is a testament to the revolutionary and evolutionary advancement in theory and empirical practice in the field. CDST is revolutionary for the fact that it warrants systems thinking of SLA phenomena that breaks the chain of dichotomous conceptualization on vital…

A fundamental distinction in the field of second language acquisition (SLA) is route versus rate of acquisition (or L2 development). While the former has traditionally referred to developmental sequences of learning, the latter denotes the speed with which learners progress through developmental trajectories (Muñoz, 2006). A second distinction at…

The advent of generative AI (GenAI) technology has impacted second language (L2) learning and assessment, offering new opportunities for learners to practice and improve their skills. One approach gaining interest is employing GenAI tools as writing or speaking partners to provide personalized, real-time feedback and assistance to learners. These…

The recent advancement in technology has attracted learners' attention worldwide to Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) for educational purposes. While GenAI has shown promising results for general language purposes (Godwin-Jones, 2023; Xiao & Zhi, 2023), the potential of GenAI for language learning has not been fully explored. This…

While investigating plagiarism is relevant in different fields, verification of original authorship has also attracted attention in academia and L2 learning and assessment contexts. Generally associated with academic misconduct and dishonesty, plagiarism in writing can take many shapes and be hard to detect. In addition to being a very…

"Variability" and "fractality," two key concepts in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST)--the former concerning changes and variations, and the latter concerning recursiveness and self-similarities--may seem contradictory at first glance. This forum piece attempts to elucidate how the two seemingly contradictory properties can…

This exploratory practice study examined the effectiveness of film adaptation in teaching a Shakespearean play, "The Merchant of Venice," during the fall semester of 2022 at the Higher Institute of Languages, Gabès. Qualitative and quantitative data from third-year students majoring in English language, literature, and civilization, as…

First Language (L1) has been assumed to play a role in Second Language ability (Bachman & Palmer, 1996). However, the interplay between them across skill, task, or scoring criteria is more complex (Hamp-Lyons & Davies, 2008). Using Many-Facets Rasch Measurement, this study investigates the main effects of examinee ability, rater severity,…

In the realm of language acquisition, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents a promising frontier. However, gaps exist in understanding the practical application of AI-driven tools, particularly in second language learning contexts. This study delves into the usability of ChatGPT, an advanced AI language model, within the domain…

The aim of this exploratory practice research was to gain a better understanding of how tertiary education English as a foreign language (EFL) learners perceive oral presentations (OPs) in the formative assessment of their speaking skills. Participants were 150 pre-service teachers of primary education from the Higher Institute of Social Sciences…