Exploring Linguistic and Motor Influences in Signed Second Language Acquisition

Second language (L2) signers exhibit ‘accents’ when signing. While sign accents are not well understood, a common observation is that the L2 accents of those who already have a signed first language (L1) differ in important ways from those who do not (e.g., hearing non-signers learning a signed L2). While it is understood that L1 experience drives L2 accents, it is not clear if accent derives from L1 phonology or learned L1 motor patterns. We investigate L2 sign language accents, comparing L1 British Sign Language (BSL) signers, and L1 English non-signers learning Hong Kong Sign Language (HKSL) signs. We plan to analyze both linguistic-based output (i.e., correct phonological features; Stokoe, 1960) and motor output (e.g., articulation angles, estimated joint torques, and production ballistics). Preliminary linguistic outputs indicate that signers outperform non-signers irrespective of specific motor skill training, supporting the idea that, at least for phonological accuracy, L1 language skills are more important than motor skills. However, planned motor output analyses may demonstrate a role for motor skills as well in driving L2 sign learning outcomes.