Second Language Acquisition, Language Teaching and Translation Studies

Abstract

Current interaction among second language acquisition (SLA), language teaching and translation studies is not entirely positive. One possible source for this mutual alienation lies not in disconnected fields of study, but in misunderstood notions about these fields and in the history of a particular research paradigm. This paper describes recent developments in SLA and shows that they translate into a different kind of relationship among SLA, language teaching and translation studies. It further examines similarities and differences in the goals and objects of study of the above disciplines, and reviews and synthesizes the legacy of language teaching in translator training. Finally, by summarizing research in SLA that is relevant for translation studies, the author illustrates the relationship among the fields under study with respect to specific research areas and to teaching. Some implications for translator training are pointed out.