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Part of
Research Methods in the Study of L2 Writing Processes
Edited by Rosa M. Manchón and Julio Roca de Larios
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 5] 2023
► pp. 364–381

Afterword

| Michigan State University

In this afterword, I summarize the strengths and challenges of different research methods used to study second language writing processes with reference to the various chapters in the volume. This is followed by a discussion of considerations researchers have to make when choosing a method. Next, I summarize themes that are apparent throughout the volume, and then focus on certain themes that I believe need more attention.

Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Factors affecting choice of method (and vice versa)
    • Writing conditions and prompts
    • Participant characteristics
    • Focus of the research
    • One-shot or longitudinal research
  • Summary of major themes addressed in the book
    • Ecological validity, external validity, and authenticity
    • Reductionism, triangulation, and the relationship between the parts and the whole
    • Population variability and expansion to non-WEIRD populations
    • Data reduction/presentation/coding
  • Themes needing more attention
    • Theoretical bases for studying the writing process
    • The learning potential of research methods
    • How understanding the writing process has or has not improved teaching
  • Conclusion
  • References
Published online: 23 October 2023
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.5.17pol
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