The Complex Dynamic Approach

Abstract

This chapter aims to explain how research has conceptualized psychological and second language development (SLD) as complex, adaptive, and dynamic systems that self-organize in non-linear and unpredictable paths. It describes how scholars in the fields conduct research within this developmental paradigm, known as complexity theory, dynamic systems theory, or complex adaptive theory to address questions that were previously overlooked. Complex dynamic systems theory (CDST) offers a framework and research methods to investigate fluctuation and interaction between SLD variables over time. Research in first language development using a CDST framework exemplifies the commonalities and differences between psychology and SLD research. Research using a CDST framework offers an alternative lens with details about the processes in which psychological and SLD phenomena develop. Researchers in both psychology and SLD have suggested that external influences affect cognitive development; yet, the research about perturbations created by outside influences on internal development is limited.