This book offers further insight into the complex process of second language attrition and the interacting variables that influence it. Focusing on the Irish language, it explores the language behaviour and learning experience of four Irish adults residing in Germany, who have not had contact with the Irish language in approximately 30 years. It closely examines levels of retention of lexical item knowledge and observes that seemingly forgotten information can be reactivated on re-exposure. The book is also of particular relevance for those interested in minority languages and the impact of state and education policy on language maintenance.
In a study on second language attrition, four Irish adults residing in Germany, who had not had contact with the Irish language in approximately 30 years, were tested on Irish lexical item knowledge and interviewed on their language use and learning experience. Support for the Savings Paradigm and Complex Dynamic Systems Theory was established.
Acknowledgements Introduction Language Attrition The Irish
language Research design Results and analysis Discussion Overview and
closing remarks References Appendices .
Eimear Geary studied at University College Dublin, Ireland, and at the University of Cologne, Germany, where she was awarded her PhD in Applied Linguistics. She is a lecturer in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, and Language Practice at the English Department II of the University of Cologne. Her principal research interests include language attrition, language maintenance, bilingualism and multilingualism, and second language acquisition.
