Complex dynamic systems theory

Second language development is the process by which people learn a second language. Second language development is contrasted with second language acqusition by emphasising that language learning is an infinite process with no end state.

Definition

In 1997 Diane Larsen-Freeman published an article in which she claimed that second language acquisition should be viewed as a developmental process which includes Language attrition as well as language acquisition.

Second language development is studied by applying Dynamical systems theory. The main features of the Dynamic Systems theory are nonlinearity in development, iteratitve process, complete interconnecteness.