FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING: THE SKILL ACQUISITION THEORY

The main focus of this paper is to provide an overview of the Skill Acquisition Theory (SAT) and its specific application to the field of foreign language learning (FLL). Originating in general cognitive psychology, the SAT explains the developmental process by which complex language skills are mastered. This theory is particularly relevant to explaining FLL process as it details the progression from conscious effort to automatic performance via distinct stages and mechanisms.