Leveraging multimodal visualization reflections for L2 writing research

Abstract

This paper introduces readers to the use of multimodal visualization reflections (MVRs) in applied linguistics research, with special attention paid to its applications for researching various topics within second language (L2) writing. MVRs are a method of data elicitation, in which participants are asked to illustrate something (either in print or digitally) as a means of visualizing a process, an idea, and/or their current knowledge state on a given topic. Participants are then typically asked to describe what their visualization represents, including all parts of their illustration. Although MVRs have been used in a handful of L2 writing studies, their full potential has yet to be realized. Thus, this paper advocates for their use in future studies. The paper opens with a review of the concept of multimodality and its place within contemporary applied linguistics scholarship. Next, discussed is the theoretical support behind leveraging MVRs. Example studies are then outlined, showcasing how MVRs have been leveraged by previous researchers when investigating different phenomena (e.g., L2 learners’ genre awareness, identities, ideologies, and issues involving language testing). The article closes with a discussion of future research directions covering how L2 writing scholars might adopt MVRs in future studies.