ERIC Number: EJ1429514
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1534-8458
EISSN: EISSN-1532-7701
Identity Construction and Second Language Acquisition: A Multiple Case Study of Thai Immigrants in Hong Kong
Journal of Language, Identity, and Education, v23 n4 p498-511 2024
A growing body of research on identity and language learning has investigated how immigrant learners construct their identities in the process of acquiring a second language (L2). Much of the research, however, is situated in Western contexts. This study looks at how three Thai immigrants acquired an L2, Cantonese, and constructed their identities in their host society--Hong Kong. Drawing on the data collected from semi-structured interviews, onsite observation, and informal conversations, this study shows that the three Thai immigrants built multiple identities that allowed them to have access to the target language learning resources and practices. They embraced selective acculturation by maintaining their Thai identity and preserving their cultural heritage, which had a positive influence on their acquisition of the target language. The study suggests that language learners need to claim powerful identities and exercise human agency in their interaction with target language speakers to facilitate language learning.
Descriptors: Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Self Concept, Immigrants, Foreign Countries, Thai, Native Language, Acculturation, Cultural Maintenance, Asians, Personal Autonomy, Access to Education, Native Speakers, Intercultural Communication, Cultural Capital, Cultural Activities, Females, Sino Tibetan Languages
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Hong Kong; Thailand
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A