Kopplungstheorie

Kopplungstheorie, or "coupling theory," is a concept primarily used in the field of linguistics and language acquisition, particularly within the context of second language learning and bilingualism. The theory was developed by the linguist and psycholinguist Robert DeKeyser and focuses on how learners establish connections, or "couplings," between the linguistic structures of their native language and the language they are learning.

At its core, Kopplungstheorie posits that language learners do not acquire a second language in isolation but rather by linking it to their existing linguistic knowledge. These couplings can influence how learners perceive, process, and produce the new language. For example, a speaker of German learning English might unconsciously apply German grammatical rules to English sentences, leading to errors like the use of articles where none are required in English.

The theory emphasizes that these couplings are not inherently negative; instead, they serve as a cognitive scaffold that helps learners navigate the complexities of a new language. Over time, as learners become more proficient, these couplings may weaken or shift, allowing for more accurate and natural language use. Kopplungstheorie also highlights the role of individual differences, such as prior language experience and cognitive abilities, in shaping how couplings develop and are resolved.

Research within this framework has explored various aspects of second language acquisition, including transfer phenomena, error analysis, and the role of metalinguistic awareness. The theory has been applied to a wide range of languages and learner populations, contributing to a deeper understanding of how language learners bridge the gap between their native and target languages. While Kopplungstheorie remains a dynamic area of study, it continues to offer valuable insights into the complexities of bilingual development and language learning strategies.