Resonances: Second Language Development and Language Planning and Policy from a Complexity Theory Perspective

Abstract

This chapter begins by introducing Complexity Theory and five of its theoretical tenets that have implications for both second language development (SLD) and language planning and policy (LPP). The tenets have to do with qualities of complex systems: emergence, interconnected levels and timescales, nonlinearity, dynamism, and context dependence. These tenets are then applied to SLD. I go on to show that these same qualities of complex systems hold resonances for LPP. However, descriptive resonances are not sufficient for building a bridge between SLD and LPP. Thus, I conclude that a bridge must be constructed of a deeper awareness, namely that both second language learners/educators and planners/policy makers operate in a complex world, where interventions need to be situated, contingent, and adaptable, and where agents of change need to be prepared for unexpected outcomes.