Establishing the Cerebral Basis for Language Learner Strategies : From the Perspectives of Working Memory Activation and Learner Training.

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Through the use of a brain-imaging technique called NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy) or Optical Topography, this study empirically established the cerebral basis of language learner strategy use postulated in Macaro's model (2006), showing working memory is a core component of its use. Our study then proved that, in considering"cognitive load"of language learning, we should take into consideration the relationship between the appropriate use of learner strategy and the difficulty level of materials to be learned. Based on these findings, along with an emerging theory of self-regulation (Zimmerman & Schunk, 2001), we rendered a theoretical model regarding language learners, thereby providing pedagogical implications for"learner training,"a new concept expected to replace traditional"strategy training". In addition, the current study produced some methodological implications concerning the use of mixed methodology, effect size, and statistical power, all of which are relatively new concepts recently introduced in the field of applied linguistics.