Revising in a non-alphabetic language: The multi-dimensional and dynamic nature of online revisions in Chinese as a second language

Abstract

While second language (L2) writing processes have received increased attention in recent years, few studies have considered writing processes in non-alphabetic languages. To help fill this gap, this study examined the online revision behaviours and associated cognitive processes of L2 writers of Chinese from a multi-dimensional and temporal perspective. Thirty-two L2 Chinese writers performed four writing tasks while their keystrokes were logged. Based on their last writing performance, participants engaged in a stimulated recall session, during which they were asked to describe their thoughts during revisions. Baseline data were collected from 32 first language (L1) writers of Chinese following the same procedure. Revisions were coded for linguistic domain, context, and level of transcription. Stimulated recall comments were categorised according to the orientation of revision. We found that L2 writers more frequently revised language than content, smaller linguistic units than larger ones, and text at the inscription point than previously produced text. They also revised Pinyin more than characters. Revisions occurred more frequently in the middle stages of writing, except for most contextual revisions made in the final stage. Similar trends were observed in L1 writing, apart from character revisions outnumbering Pinyin revisions and proportionately more revisions focusing on content.