Labov's monitor model: monitoring as attention paid to speech form on a continuum¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

Labov's model, developed from observed variation in first language speech, treats monitoring as attention paid to the form of speech, which can be paid in greater or lesser degrees. The article argues it implies monitoring "is not like an on-off switch. Rather, it is like a rheostat that can be turned up or down," and that no clear demarcation exists between conscious problem-solving monitoring and an unconscious feel for correctness. The author judges it a more accurate representation of the monitoring process than Krashen's model.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Speakers must vary the attention they pay to speech form according to circumstances, as observed in style-shifting data such as New Yorkers' use of (r) following a vowel.

Constraints¶

• The article notes the model's application to second language learners is inferred; whether nonnative speaker styles stratify like native speaker styles is left to future research.

Target Learners¶

• second language learners
• native speakers whose speech varies by style

Target Learning Objectives¶

• accurate production of target language forms across speech styles

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• Krashen's Monitor Model: acquisition versus learning as separate internal rule systems
• Labov's five-segment theory of language makes style the function of grammar

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Adamson, Douglas. (1983). Monitoring and the Monitor Model: Labov Versus Krashen. WATESOL Working Papers. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED242194