This book provides a comprehensive overview of research in applied linguistics involving the intersection of digital multimodal composing (DMC) and second language (L2) writing. It presents a theoretically and methodologically diverse introduction to key theories and scholarship supporting DMC’s use, along with practical pedagogical tips and tools for adopting DMC in the L2 writing classroom. This text is the first of its kind to distil current research in the area, including chapters that address research on students’ DMC writing processes, evidence of DMC’s impact on L2 learning, students’ and teachers’ perceptions and how DMC affects various individual differences such as motivation, metacognition and identity development. This book serves as a useful resource for both graduate students and faculty in applied linguistics and related fields who are researchers, teacher trainers or language instructors. It is particularly relevant for those working in subfields such as second language acquisition, computer-assisted language learning and L2 writing.
Matt Kessler is Assistant Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of South Florida, USA. His research focuses on issues pertaining to second language writing, genre-based teaching and learning and computer-assisted language learning. He is the co-editor of Conducting Genre-Based Research in Applied Linguistics: A Methodological Guide (Routledge, 2024).
AcknowledgementsPart 1: Introduction and Theoretical SupportChapter 1: IntroductionChapter 2: Key Theories and ConceptsPart 2: Research on DMC and Language LearningChapter 3: Writing ProcessesChapter 4: Outcomes and Evidence of LearningChapter 5: Teachers’ and Students’ PerceptionsChapter 6: Individual DifferencesPart 3: Pedagogical ApplicationsChapter 7: DMC Tasks and ActivitiesChapter 8: AssessmentChapter 9: Conclusion and Future Research DirectionsReferencesIndex
The combination of multiple sensory and communicative modes to create meaning is a familiar feature of modern life and contemporary education, and there are few better introductions to the topic than this. Kessler explores the diverse theories, approaches and methodologies used to conduct multimodal research and offers insightful practical tips for teachers using multimodal composing in L2 classrooms.