Social Dimensions of Listening

Abstract

Listening comprehension used to be viewed as a passive‐receptive and individual skill in the second or foreign language (L2) literature. However, this view has changed as there is a greater understanding of L2 listening that has resulted from the growing body of research in this area. L2 listening is a complex activity that requires active engagement and mediated training. Most of the work conducted in L2 listening has been from a cognitive perspective. Yet, the research has expanded significantly to include metacognitive and socioaffective perspectives. The rise of sociocultural theory (SCT) in L2 learning has also permeated L2 listening to incorporate a social dimension to this skill. This entry provides explanations and examples of the importance of social interaction in the development of L2 listening.