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In:Research Methods in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory Approaches to Second Language Development
Edited by Wander Lowie, Rosmawati and Vanessa De Wilde
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 14] 2025
► pp. 35–56

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Chapter 3
Dynamic Structural Equation Modeling in response to the generalizability concern about CDST-inspired research

 | University of Bojnord
 | Yazd University
Published online: 11 September 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.14.03ela
Abstract
This chapter introduces Dynamic Structural Equation Modeling (DSEM) as a CDST-compatible method that bridges idiographic and nomothetic approaches, thereby enhancing the generalizability of findings in SLA research. It explores DSEM’s potential to tackle key challenges in CDST-inspired studies, particularly regarding generalization. The chapter begins by outlining CDST’s role in SLA, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches and addressing critiques of generalization in CDST research. It then provides a detailed explanation of DSEM, including its assumptions, data requirements, intra-individual and inter-individual models, and key parameters. Next, an empirical study illustrates DSEM’s application in SLA. Finally, the chapter evaluates DSEM’s contributions to CDST-inspired SLA research, acknowledges its limitations, and concludes with implications for implementing DSEM in SLA, offering a comprehensive perspective on its role in advancing L2 development research.
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • DSEM: A response to CDST’s approach to generalization
    • Generalization in CDST-research
    • DSEM aims and framework
    • DSEM assumptions and data requirements
    • DSEM models
      • Model 1.Intra-Individual: A Time Series model
      • Model 2.Inter-Individual level: Time series modeling and multilevel modeling
      • Models 3 and 4.Adding latent variables to the inter-individual level: Time series modeling, multilevel modeling, and structural equation modeling
  • Empirical study
    • Model 1.Intra-Individual level — A Time Series model
    • Models 2 and 3.Inter-Individual level — Time Series, Multilevel modeling, and Structural Equation modeling
  • Affordances of DSEM in CDST research
  • Implications for the implementation of DSEM in future studies
  • Research ethics considerations
  • Conclusion
  • References
References (28)
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