Corpus linguistics and second / foreign language learning : exploring multiple paths

The aim of this article is twofold: first, to briefly assess the influence that corpus linguistic research has had on second/foreign language learning so far, and second, to suggest future directions for a more coherent and well thought out integration of corpora in instructed settings. In section 1, the influence of native and learner corpus research on second/foreign language learning will be assessed in turn, and some reasons for the overall lack of uptake of corpora in educational contexts will be put forward. In section 2, I will argue that multiple paths will have to be explored for a better integration of corpora in instructed settings. The fact that various – and sometimes even radically opposite – directions will be proposed might appear conflicting at first sight, but it will be demonstrated that opting for a multiplicity of perspectives is the only way to lay the foundations of a healthy cross-fertilization between corpus linguistics and the current multi-faceted language learning and teaching cultures.