Margarita Steinel
Research topics
1. Second language (L2) speaking proficiency: components and assessment. The main aim of this project is to probe into the compositional nature of L2 speaking proficiency. In keeping with the ‘interactionalist’ view of second language assessment, the role of factors which have to do with L2 offline knowledge (productive knowledge of vocabulary and grammar), online processing skills (lexical access and sentence production) and communicative context (formal vs. informal) will be investigated. The mediating role of personality in L2 speaking proficiency will also be considered. Taking levels of proficiency as specified in the Common European Framework of Reference: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEF) as a starting point with regard to the selection of the samples, we will compare the relative weight of the aforementioned factors in a cross-sectional design (this study is referredto as Study 1 in the original projectdescription). Further, in an in-depth study (Study 2) we will examine the role of L1 transfer (Turkish and English learners of Dutch will participate in the study) in L2 speaking proficiency and try to integrate what is known about L1 transfer and stages of interlanguage development with the ideas which inform current L2 assessment practices. Together with the members of the project team, I'm working on the large-scale study (Study 1). Also, I will be specifically responsible for the in-depth study (Study 2).
2. Earlier (MA) research
L2 idiom learning: the effect of productive and receptive learning on performance on productive and receptive test tasks, the role of imageability and transparency of idioms on learning
Currently involved in the following NWO-funded research project:
Unraveling second language proficiency.
Project team: Prof. Dr. J. Hulstijn, Dr. R. Schoonen, Dr. A. Florijn and Dr. N. de Jong. Duration: November 2004 - January 2010.
Project description
WiSP