The project aims to investigate a radically usage-based approach to the learning of second languages (L2s), including Welsh as an L2. Usage-based theories of language and of language learning have become very influential over the past 15 years, including in explaining first language acquisition. However, its insights have not been widely applied to L2 learning where methodology still follows more traditional understandings of language learning. This project addresses this shortcoming by investigating how fully usage-based L2 learning would work.

It will use SaySomethingIn (SSi) as a case study of a potentially usage-based language learning programme to ascertain how the framework may or may not be an accurate and useful portrayal of second language acquisition. This will involve a mixed methods approach, including quantitative data from the SSi programme and qualitative data from participants.