Prefatory Note: What SLA Research Is and How to Conduct It

Abstract

The Japan Second Language Association (J-SLA), which publishes the journal Second Language, has defined the nature of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) research in its founding principles. The 24th International Conference of the Japan Second Language Association (J-SLA2024) held a symposium where three researchers presented their proposals on what constitutes research that aligns with this definition, and discussions followed based on those proposals. This chapter presents their proposals and the subsequent discussion. Each paper critically reviews past SLA research and offers suggestions regarding the direction SLA research should take as a scientific discipline.