Language acquisition in foreign language contexts and the differential benefits of interaction

This paper specifically focuses on the findings of research on interaction in foreign language contexts in which time and L2 input are both limited. Although theoretical work on the relationship between interaction and second language development has placed great emphasis on the benefits of input, feedback and modified output when they arise from meaningful communication between learners in L2 settings, these aspects have not been greatly considered in a range of FL contexts. The authors argue for the need for further research on the nature and outcomes of interaction in this setting, and particularly on how interactional features and effects differ according to instructional context. Such research needs to explore the extent to which interaction facilitates L2 development in contexts where target-like input and opportunities for interaction are greatly limited.