Progress that has been made in second language research in the last two years and future directions in the research methodology of second language studies are discussed. In order to examine the continuation and expansion of current research, the research reported by Schumann (1976) is compared with current research as represented by the titles of papers being given at the 1977 Los Angeles Second Language Research Forum. A diagram Schumann used to discuss the research related to second language learning is expanded to include both linguistic and extralinguistic input and modified to reflect other characteristics that recent research has investigated. Two trends in second language research are: (1) increasing numbers of linguistic structures and systems are being examined, and (2) language is being viewed as a tool that is used by speakers to convey meanings and intentions. Results from the research on what is learned have been used as the basis for inferring learning processes and strategies of second language learning. It is suggested that controlled experimentation related to strategies and techniques is needed. Second language research has relied heavily on case study research which has been either longitudinal or cross-sectional and has drawn on the methodology of first language research and the methodology of linguistics. It is suggested that the methodology of experimental psychology be used. (SW)