Lookback supports semi-parallel, just-in-time processing in second language written composition.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Competent written production results from semi-parallel processes that flow from content determination to finger movement. Information from upstream processes that is not used immediately is easily lost. This disruption is more likely when a writer composes in a language in which they lack expertise (L2) than when they compose in their first language (L1). Looking back into text-just-written may serve to maintain fluent processing. Our research determined whether patterns of hesitation (pausing) and lookback in L1 and L2 writing were consistent with this theory.

Method

39 university students composed argumentative texts by keyboard in L1 (English) and L2 (non-expert Spanish). Participants' keystrokes were logged, and eye movements were tracked to determine when they

SUBMITTER: Chukharev E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12582431 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature