The use of microgenetic method in SLA research

Microgenetic  method  is  a  specific  method  for  studying  change  in  abilities,  knowledge,  and understanding  during  short  time  spans,  through  dense  observations,  and  over  a  relatively  long period of time. In this paper I will attempt to provide a brief overview of microgenetic method and will point out its potential advantages and disadvantages in the context of second language acquisition. To illustrate the utility of microgenetic method in SLA research, I will then discuss a  SLA-related  issue  which  could  be  addressed  via  this  research  method,  namely  the  effects  of written corrective feedback on L2 acquisition.