3. A DUB-Inspired Case Study of Multidimensional L2 Complexity Development: Competing or Connecting Growers?

This chapter aims to illustrate the potential of the dynamic usage-based (DUB) approach for yielding insights into the interrelationships between various complexity dimensions in second language (L2) learners’ performance and proficiency in the course of L2 development by applying a number of techniques proposed in the DUB literature to the L2 English writing productions of 10 Dutch-speaking secondary school learners over a period of two school years. The results reveal a high degree of variability, both within and across learners, and show that different complexity dimensions do not develop in parallel and may even enter into competitive relationships. Our findings demonstrate the importance of including multiple complexity dimensions in our analyses of L2 development in order to obtain a full and comprehensive picture of the development process. They also underline that one must be cautious both in projecting group findings onto individual learners as well as in generalising from individual case studies.