Language Transfer: A Dead Issue? - Reflecting on ‘Reverse Transfer’ and ‘Multicompetence’

Abstract

There has been extensive research into how L₁ affects L₂, commonly known as ‘negative influence’, but a lot less about the opposite direction, commonly known as ‘Reverse or Backward’ transfer. As well as the first language influences the second, the second language influences the first.  The present study, therefore, attempts to examine and critically review pertinent research into the question of bidirectional influence between languages.  First, it traces the conceptual framework of the notion L₁?L₂ effect.  Second, it attempts to demonstrate how an emerging new language (L₂) affects the existing L₁.  Third, it examines the pedagogical aspects of both directions, as manifested in L₂ classroom.  Special focus will be given to how the concept of “multicompetence” sees the goal of L₂ learning and how language teaching should reflect such a goal.  In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of using learners’ first language in L₂ classroom will be highlighted and specific methodological recommendations will be made.