The role of output in SLA

Swain argues that output enhances fluency as well as accuracy. She hypothesizes that output plays three functions relating to accuracy.

 Functions of outputting

The first function is “noticing” or “consciousness-raising” role. Speaking or writing in the target language may prompt learners to consciously recognize their problems.

The second function is hypothesis-testing role. Output indicates that learners have formulated hypotheses about how the language works. The kind of output invokes feedback which can lead them to modify or reprocess their output.

The third function is termed by Swain “the metalinguistic function”, which can be understood as “reflective role”.

 Effects of output theory

It is valuable in drawing attention to the role of output in second language or foreign language learning. Learning a language is inseparable from using it. Using the target language can lead learners to reflect upon their success and failure in communication and to focus on what needs to be learned.