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In:Theoretical Issues in Second Language Research: Challenges and new directions
Edited by Junya Fukuta, John Matthews and Shigenori Wakabayashi
[Studies in Bilingualism 69] 2026
► pp. 18–42

Chapter 2
Towards a new framework of scientific inquiry into L2 cognitive system

 | Gakushuin University
 | Tokyo Metropolitan University
 | Kansai University
This content is being prepared for publication; it may be subject to changes.
Abstract
One of the primary objectives of second language (L2) research, when approached as a branch of cognitive science, is to develop theories of human capacities that explain the acquisition of the L2 cognitive system and its underlying processing mechanisms. This chapter asks what it means to study the L2 cognitive system scientifically and proposes one possible framework. To begin, we identify the core nature of the L2 cognitive system and demonstrate that investigating the system empirically is an arduous task that necessitates dedicated methodology. Next, we restructure the existing research paradigm to encompass the essential components for this exploration. Finally, we propose the Framework for Rational Abduction and Mechanistic Explanation (FRAME) as a solution for implementing this paradigm and developing explanatory theories of the L2 cognitive system.
Article outline
  • 1.Conceptual foundations
  • 2.What systems are we targeting?
    • 2.1Transcendental realism
    • 2.2What is needed to construct an explanatory theory?
  • 3.Toward solving the problems
    • 3.1Summary of the problems
    • 3.2Logic of inquiry
  • 4.Proposal for a new research framework: Frame
    • 4.1Phases of research procedure
      • Discovery of “surprising fact”
      • Hypothesis generation
      • Derivation of theoretically predictive phenomena
      • Generalization and hypothesis correction/withdrawal
    • 4.2The role of linguistic theory
  • 5.Idealization and experimental control
  • 6.Other issues to be considered
  • 7.Summary and a way forward
  • Author queries
  • Acknowledgements
  • Notes
  • References
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