Although second language acquisition is a relatively young discipline, it has been informed by quite a number of theories. In recent history, new theories which have been introduced to the field include Chomsky’s universal grammar, Krashen’s input hypothesis, and Swain’s output hypothesis. In this talk, we will begin by brainstorming theories in second language education that members of the audience are familiar with. Then, I will provide a very general overview of common theories in second language acquisition research that I am familiar with. Next, we will discuss how theory can influence the decisions we make in our teaching and how existing theories can inform new ones. Then I will introduce a social theory of learning that informs my dissertation research on female foreign language teachers in Japan. Finally, I will open the floor to questions and discussion.
