This study investigated the effects of second language (L2) proficiency differences in pairs and patterns of interaction on L2 learning, making use of both qualitative and quantitative data. We designed the study in such a way that four different core participants interacted with higher and lower proficiency non-core participants. These learners engaged in a three-stage task involving pair writing, pair comparison (between their original text and a reformulated version of it) and individual writing. The core participants also engaged in a stimulated recall after the task. We analysed each pair's collaborative dialogue in terms of language-related episodes and patterns of pair interaction (Storch, 2002a) as well as each learner's individual post-test score. The findings suggested that the patterns of pair interaction greatly influenced the frequency of LREs and post-test performance. When the learners engaged in collaborative patterns of interaction, they were more likely to achieve higher posttest scores regardless of their partner's proficiency level. It seems that proficiency differences do not necessarily affect the nature of peer assistance and L2 learning.

This study draws on sociocultural theory to explore how adult ESL learners interact with either a higher- or a lower-proficiency peer during pair problem solving, and how they each perceive the interactions with their partners. Three ESL learners engaged in a three-stage task: pair writing; pair noticing; and individual writing with two learners, one with a higher and one with a lower L2 proficiency level than their own. These three learners engaged in stimulated recall sessions and were interviewed after all the tasks were completed. Each pair's pattern of interaction and attitude towards the interactions were analyzed. Data showed that the higher- and the lower-proficiency peers could both provide opportunities for learning when they worked collaboratively. Moreover, all three learners preferred to work with a partner who ‘shared many ideas,’ regardless of their proficiency level. These findings suggest that proficiency differences are not the decisive factor affecting the nature of peer assistance. Rather, the pattern of interaction co-constructed by learners may have greater impact.

A theoretical claim is that languaging is a source of second language (L2) learning (Swain, 2006, 2010).

Languaging is a source of second language learning. The concept of languaging derives from Vygotsky's work, which demonstrated the critical role language plays in mediating cognitive processes. This entry defines languaging and collaborative dialogue (a type of languaging), and it reviews research that (a) demonstrates collaborative dialogue as a source of L2 learning and development, (b) indicates contexts which are implicated in the quality and quantity of collaborative dialogue, (c) examines different mediational means (L1, CMC), and (d) suggests the inseparability of cognition and emotion in collaborative dialogue.

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