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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. 57–79

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Chapter 4
Two stories on applying novel methods

General growth mixture modeling and multi-layered approach

 | Toyo University
 | Meiji Gakuin University
Published online: 11 September 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.14.04bab
Abstract
Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST) has encouraged researchers to adopt innovative methodologies to expand the scope of research within the CDST framework. However, the process by which individual researchers conceive, seek out, and adopt new methods is often unknown. In this chapter, we share our experiences applying new methods in our studies. After introducing our research project, we discuss the ethical issues that logically follow from the CDST and share our ethical stance that we have adopted. We then showcase two methods — growth mixture modeling (GMM)/general growth mixture modeling (GGMM) in Baba and Nitta (2021) and a Multi-Layered Approach in Nitta and Baba (2023) — delineating their general description, how we selected and implemented the method, and their affordances and limitations. We conclude by emphasizing that it is essential for CDST researchers to be mindful of their own sense of values and ethical stance, as this awareness facilitates establishing the most appropriate boundaries for their research.
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Research project
    • Overview
    • Ethical stance
  • Introduction to General Growth Mixture Modeling
    • General description of GGMM
    • Implementation of GGMM
      • How we get there
    • Implementation of GGMM in Baba and Nitta (2021)
    • Affordances and limitations of GGMM
  • Introduction to Multi-Layered Approach
    • General description of Multi-Layered Approach
    • Implementation of Multi-Layered Approach
      • How we get there
    • Implementation of Multi-Layered Approach in Nitta and Baba (2023)
      • Dispositional traits
      • Characteristic adaptations
      • Narrative identity
      • Integrating the three layers
    • Affordances and limitations of Multi-Layered Approach
  • Conclusion and implications for future research
  • References
  • Appendix
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