Linguistic input factors in native and L2 processing of inflectional morphology

Numerous studies have examined the processing of inflectional morphology by second language learners, with the underlying aim of determining whether native-like processing can ever be attained. Indeed, this is an area where L2 speakers show notorious deficits, in contrast to the achievement of “target-like” grammar in other areas. The present paper reviews a series of experiments performed using online measures, notably ERPs and the recording of eye-movements, to address this question. The novelty of the present work lies in its emphasis on the properties of the L2 itself, i.e., “input factors” and how they may affect learning rate.