Exploring the use of multidimensional analysis of learner language to promote register awareness

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of multidimensional analysis (MA) of learner language to promote the awareness of linguistic concepts such as register and variation. Our research explores the introduction of learner register awareness by using MA of learner language in the field of university Foreign Language Teaching (FLT). In this context, a group of learners (N = 47) completed an awareness-raising activity based on a MA of their own spoken language and the language of native speakers fulfilling the same tasks. This research illustrates practical ways in which MA of learner and native languages can be used in the context of university language learning. Our research shows that it is feasible to (a) carry out MA of learner language and (b) relate the analysis to the notions of register and language variation in university EFL. The participants confirmed that after the activity they were better prepared to understand the role of register and the connections between individual linguistic features and registers. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.