The Effect of Metalinguistic Awareness and the Previously Learned Foreign Languages on Fourth Language Acquisition by Adult Learners

Nshiwi, Darin and Jessner-Schmid, Ulrike (2021) The Effect of Metalinguistic Awareness and the Previously Learned Foreign Languages on Fourth Language Acquisition by Adult Learners. ALKALMAZOTT NYELVTUDOMÁNY, 21 (1). pp. 1-17. ISSN 1587-1061

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Abstract

The dynamics and complexity of the multilingual system have attracted many linguists to study and explore this phenomenon. Some researchers concentrate on the linguistic system itself. Others believe that social and educational bonds are the driving forces in this process. The overall aim of this study is to contribute to our understanding of the role of metalinguistic awareness and the previously learned foreign languages on learning German by adult learners. The main framework of this study is the Dynamic Model of Multilingualism (Herdina & Jessner 2002). Ninety-two true-beginner learners of German in Syria took part in this study. The data analysis showed that there is a significant correlation between English and French language proficiency and German language acquisition. Moreover, the linear regression test demonstrated that English and German metalinguistic test scores reinforce learning the German language. Both age and educational background were also found significant variables whereas gender was not.

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