External Frames of Reference in FL Self-Concept Formation

Abstract

This chapter considers the external frames of reference which appear to influence the development of the L2 self-concepts of the learners in this study. The four key external frames of reference considered are (1) social comparisons, (2) explicit and implicit feedback from significant others, in particular teachers, (3) subjective perceived experiences of success and failure, as well as standardised feedback in the form of grades and test scores, and, finally, (4) learners’ subjective critical experiences. In the discussion of these factors, the importance of informal language learning and use experiences is especially salient.