Abstract:
Due to the great interest in learning Chinese as a foreign language (CFL), over the past two decades there has been an increased number of Studies related to Second Language Acquisition in Chinese (SLAC). Though the research field has not yet been fully established with a framework and more specific guidelines, there have been some successful attempts and projects examining the current situation of SLAC.
This talk includes three parts: (1) a review of the recent SLAC research on phonology, syntax, the logographic script and intercultural competence; (2) an introduction to the interlanguage of CFL learners; (3) a summary of pedagogic innovations in the classroom. Most of the studies presented are based on empirical evidence and some are drawn from experiments or action research by front-line CFL teachers on CFL programmes in the US, Europe, China and other parts of the world. In addition, this talk is selective of the research and studies reviewed and presented in line with the direction that I propose for a new development era of SLAC which might be challenging to the SLAC academics and CFL professionals.

Short bio:
Yang LU is Assistant Professor of Chinese Language at the University of Nottingham /UK. Prof. Lu studied the impact of teaching methodologies on second language acquisition and the relationship between the discourse features in learners‘ spoken language and their overall speaking proficiency. Apart from several articles on CFL Teaching and Learning, she is co-editor of the book „Teaching and Learning Chinese in Higher Education: standardisation, pedagogy and learner language“ (Routledge) and is an external trainer for British Council’s Chinese Assistant programme. Yang Lu is also a Senior Fellow of Higher Education Academy, U.K. and has been deputy-chair of the British Chinese Language Teaching Society from 2012 to 2016.