The Role of the Schumann Acculturation Model in Generation Z English Acquisition Context

Abstract

The present research explored the validity of the Schumann Acculturation Model (1978) for Generation Z learners during their second language acquisition (SLA), which targets Chinese English as a Second language (ESL) students learning English in Canada [7]. The study also investigated correlations between generation Z learners' culture adaptation and speaking proficiency when learning English in an English-speaking country, and other possible factors that impact learners' SLA. 140 Chinese ESL international students answered the background information questionnaire, social distance questionnaire, psychological distance questionnaire, and IELTS speaking score. The result examines that there was no distinct relationship between ESL learners' culture adaptation and language proficiency.