Multimodal Conversation Analysis as a Method for Studying Second Language Use and Learning in Naturally Occurring Interaction

Abstract

Conversation analytical research on second language use and learning (CA-SLA) understands second language learning as a socially displayed process, made visible through a variety of linguistic and embodied actions. Detailed analysis of these actions requires good-quality video data from interactions relevant in learners’ life-worlds. The sound and visual quality of videos as well as the positioning of the camera with regard to the participants in the interactions delimit what the analyst can observe and analyze and are therefore important factors in constructing the reliability of research (Mondada, 2013; Peräkylä, 2004). Moreover, choices made in transcribing and presenting data extracts are crucial in terms of research validity for CA and consequential for the analysis. This chapter introduces some basic principles of multimodal conversation analysis (CA) as a research method when applied to analyzing second language use and learning from the multimodal perspective. It discusses how to collect, transcribe, and analyze multimodal data from everyday interactions.