Linguistic Multi-Competence and Its Implications for English Education in Japan

Abstract

The aim of this paper is twofold: to elucidate theoretical and empirical underpinnings of the notion of linguistic multi-competence (LMC) of the second language (L2) user and to discuss its implications for English education in Japan. In the center of the LMC notion is the term ‘user,’ which was first used to avoid a negative connotation inherent in the term ‘learner’ as a deficient language speaker who is never able to attain a native-like proficiency in a L2. With a great impact of the LMC idea on applied linguistics and L2 learning and teaching, the term has been widely spreading, though slowly, among applied linguists and language teachers particularly in Europe and North America. As for the situation in Japan, however, the LMC idea itself or the L2 user concept has not yet attracted much attention. We begin by examining theoretical backgrounds of LMC. Next, we review some distinctive features of L2 users’ language and mind such as reverse transfer, hyper linguistic susceptibility, and cognitive restructuring to show how unique L2 users are. Finally, we discuss some pedagogical implications of LMC for English education with the solutions to current issues in Japanese English education in mind such as the role model for Japanese, L1 use and translation work in the classroom, the goals of English learning and teaching, and Japanese perception of themselves as English users.