Applying priming methods to L2 learning, teaching and research

This volume features a collection of empirical studies which use priming methods to explore the comprehension, production, and acquisition of second language (L2) phonology, syntax, and lexicon. The term priming refers to the phenomenon in which prior exposure to specific language forms or meanings influences a speaker’s subsequent language comprehension or production. This book brings together the various strands of priming research into a single volume that specifically addresses the interests of researchers, teachers, and students interested in L2 teaching and learning. Chapters by internationally known scholars feature a variety of priming techniques, describe various psycholinguistic tasks, and focus on different domains of language knowledge and skills. The book is conceptualized with a wide audience in mind, including researchers not familiar with priming methods and their application to L2 research, graduate students in second language acquisition and related disciplines, and instructors who require readings for use in their courses.

Tetyana Sydorenko, Portland State University, in Studies in Second Language Acquisition 35: 559-560, 2013:
The authors of various chapters should be commended for using clear language and explanations for their methodologically well-designed research studies. They provide excellent examples of the design and reporting of priming research that are accessible to researchers and students who do not have vast prior knowledge of such research. Although some background knowledge of psycholinguistic methods and theories may be necessary, a strong background is not needed to understand and critically read this volume. For these reasons, this volume makes an extremely valuable contribution to the fi eld of SLA.