The concept of error, or mistake, is a sensitive and crucial issue in both second language learning and second language instruction. Error can play a constructive role in learning and, under some conditions, in teaching, and avoidance of error may be less productive than confrontation with it. (MSE)

Asserts that distinction between "error" and its social implications is false and that research and teaching based on that distinction is flawed. Considers how errors might be viewed as social in their production and correction, examines two ways in which this is elided in the literature, and explores how a social view of error might inform…

Emphasizes the need for students to develop their editing skills. This article suggests that teachers and students should concentrate on major error patterns, and teachers should personalize editing instruction. Attention should also be given to the most frequent and glaring errors. Students who followed this editing approach significantly reduced…