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Articles

Vol. 2 No. 1-2 (1999):

Second Language Retention: Language Use as a Contributing Factor

  • Daphne A. Ducharme
  • Marjorie B. Wesche
  • Johanne S. Bourdages
Submitted
October 15, 2012
Published
1999-04-20

Abstract

Using data collected by Wesche (1993), this study examines the effect of the use of French as a second language on the performance of subjects in receptive skills (listening and reading comprehension) and productive skills (speaking and writing). The results establish a link between the use of the language after learning has occurred and the difference between pre- and post-test measures. A number of specific independent variables are examined, the most influential of which seem to be the number of university courses taken in French and the number of books read in French. The results also seem to confirm earlier findings that the initial level of proficiency promotes maintenance and even improvement.