IMPLICIT LANGUAGE APTITUDE: CONCEPTUALIZING THE CONSTRUCT, VALIDATING THE MEASURES, AND EXAMINING THE EVIDENCE

Abstract This article discusses the conceptualization, measurement, and validity of a recently emerged construct in field second language acquisition (SLA)—implicit aptitude (alternatively “implicit aptitude”). Implicit is set cognitive abilities that enable learners to make unconscious computations distributional transitional probabilities linguistic input. key an accurate understanding foundation learning contributes significantly advancement SLA theory pedagogy. The starts by clarifying concept components implicit aptitude, elaborating its role theories, identifying attributes, discussing measurement. It then synthesizes empirical evidence on divergent, convergent, predictive validity, which refers whether it distinct or separable from explicit measures are correlated, outcomes, respectively. Next, provides overview seven studies included this special issue examined various perspectives. concludes future directions.