Gesture analysis in second language acquisition

When we speak, we typically also gesture. Gestures are an integral part of language use in both production and comprehension. They are therefore also vital in second language (L2), foreign language (FL), and bilingualism studies since they can open new windows on cognitive processes, interaction practices, and learning. This entry discusses methods and tools for studying second language users' and bilinguals' gestures while they speak and also examining how they understand gestures around them. The entry outlines some basics concerning what to study and measure, tasks, participants, what to think about in preparing for data collection, transcription, coding, and analysis schemes.