Second Language Learning: An Information‐processing Perspective1

It is a byword in contemporary cognitive psychology that humans are limited‐capacity processors. This paper discusses ways in which children and adult learners manage to make the most of their limited processes in dealing with the complex input of a second language. An information‐processing approach to second language learning is proposed and evidence in support of this approach is presented. We also discuss the implications of an information‐processing perspective for second language pedagogy and research.