Effects of Task Complexity on Second-Language Production

Date
2002-12
Authors
Kong, DongKwan
Contributor
Advisor
Long, Michael H
Department
English As a Second Language
Instructor
Depositor
Speaker
Researcher
Consultant
Interviewer
Annotator
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Volume
Number/Issue
Starting Page
Ending Page
Alternative Title
Abstract
In task-based syllabus design, task sequencing in terms of task complexity, defined by the cognitive demands imposed by the task structure itself, has been a valid candidate for an objective and prospective approach to task-based syllabus design. The present study explored the effects of task complexity on second-language production. Performance data from 30 Korean speakers with English as their L2 were examined in terms of complexity and accuracy on two tasks. The results were discussed from two perspectives: between-task and within-task effects. The between-task comparison revealed that more complex tasks elicited more complex but less accurate production. The within-task comparison also proved that more complex versions of the car tasks induced more complex but less accurate language. In the within-task comparison, task complexity interacted with proficiency and prior knowledge. Methodological limitations and suggestions for future research on task complexity are noted.
Description
xi, 86 leaves
Keywords
Citation
Extent
Format
Geographic Location
Time Period
Related To
Theses for the degree of Master of Arts (University of Hawaii at Manoa). English as a Second Language; no. 3036
Table of Contents
Rights
All UHM dissertations and theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission from the copyright owner.
Rights Holder
Local Contexts
Email libraryada-l@lists.hawaii.edu if you need this content in ADA-compliant format.