The role of non-verbal communication in second language learner and native speaker discourse

Abstract

It is undeniable that non-verbal signals exert a profound impact on communication. Many researchers proved that people, when they are hesitating, analyze non-verbal signals to comprehend the meaning of a message (Allen, 1999), because they prioritize non-verbal aspects of communication over the verbal ones. The role of non-verbal communication is much more profound when native/non-native discourse is taken into consideration (Allen, 1999; Gregersen, 2007). The aim of the present paper is to analyze non-verbal communication of a native speaker and a second language learner. The main emphasis is put especially on the differences between the non-verbal signals of second language learners and native speakers. Some of these differences may disturb or prevent the interlocutors from conveying a message in learner/native speaker discourse (Marsh et al., 2003) so it is necessary to raise awareness of cultural differences and underline the tremendous role of non-verbal communication in second language learning. Furthermore, the present paper also covers some suggestions for foreign language teachers in order to improve their knowledge of the body language of their learners in the target language and help them to raise awareness of the significance of non-verbal communication in second language discourse.