Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Research background
1.2 Research questions
1.3 Significance of the study
1.4 An overview of chapters
Chapter 2 Literature Review
2.1 Individual difference variables in SLA
2.2 Development of studies on individual differences
2.3 Dynamic Systems Theory and individual differences
2.4 Summary
Chapter 3 Research Methodology
3.1 General design
3.2 Research design for the quantitative part of the study
3.3 Research design for the qualitative part of the study
3.4 Summary
Chapter 4 A Hypothesized Model of Learners' Individual Differences
4.1 Components of the individual difference system
4.2 Interrelationships of learners' individual differences
4.3 A dynamic system of learners' individual differences
4.4 Summary
Chapter 5 Dynamic Interactions Between Direct Variables and Other Variables
5.1 Variation of direct variables
5.2 Interrelationships between direct variables and EFL proficiency
5.3 Summary
Chapter 6 Dynamic Interactions Between Mediating Variables, Innate Variables and Other Factors
6.1 Variation of mediating variables and innate variables
6.2 Interrelationships between mediating variables and EFL proficiency
6.3 Interrelationships between innate variables and EFL proficiency
6.4 Summary
Chapter 7 A DST-based Model of EFL Learners' Individual Differences
7.1 The baseline model of learners' individual differences
7.2 The development model of learners' individual differences
7.3 The comprehensive model
7.4 Discussion
Chapter 8 Conclusion
8.1 Findings of the study
8.2 Implications for theory and practice
8.3 Limitations of the study
8.4 Suggestions for future research
Appendix A Eysenck Personality Inventory
Appendix B Individual Difference Questionnaires
Appendix C Guidelines for Diary Keeping
Appendix D Key Questions Asked in the Interview
Appendix E Results of Causal Modeling
