The Routledge Handbook of Second Language Acquisition and Individual Differences

The Routledge Handbook of Second Language Acquisition and Individual Differences provides a thorough, in-depth discussion of the theory, research, and pedagogy pertaining to the role individual difference (ID) factors play in second language acquisition (SLA).

It goes beyond the traditional repertoire and includes 32 chapters covering a full spectrum of topics on learners’ cognitive, conative, affective, and demographic/sociocultural variation. The volume examines IDs from two perspectives: one is how each ID variable is associated with learning behaviors, processes, and outcomes; the other is how each domain of SLA, such as vocabulary or reading, is affected by clusters of ID variables. The volume also includes a section on the common methods used in ID research, including data elicitation instruments such as surveys, interviews, and psychometric testing, as well as methods of data analysis such as structural equation modeling.

The book is a must-read for any second language researcher or applied linguist interested in investigating the effects of IDs on language learning, and for any educator interested in taking account of learners’ individual differences to maximize the effects of second language instruction.

"This handbook provides an essential resource for all those interested in the role of individual differences in second language acquisition and pedagogy. With an emphasis on cutting-edge theory and research, it offers a comprehensive discussion of current issues and developments in this key area of SLA. The book is laudable for its depth of analysis and breadth of topics covered."

Hossein Nassaji, University of Victoria, Canada​

"This handbook is a treasure trove of information and inspiration. It does a remarkable job of covering all classic topics masterfully and offering truly innovative insights into individual differences in language learning that will move the field forward. A must-own resource for SLA researchers and language teachers alike!"

Lourdes Ortega, Georgetown University, USA

"Recent advances in science and technology have renewed researchers’ interest in the crucial roles individual difference factors play in second language acquisition. This brand-new handbook provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date state-of-the-science overview of the field, and its impact on second language acquisition as an interdisciplinary area of inquiry will be felt for a very long time to come."

Li Wei, UCL Institute of Education, University College London, UK

Shaofeng Li is Associate Professor of Foreign and Second Language Education at Florida State University, USA.

Phil Hiver is Associate Professor of Foreign and Second Language Education at Florida State University, USA.

Mostafa Papi is Associate Professor of Foreign and Second Language Education at Florida State University, USA.

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