All of these studies, then, show the importance of the role of input in
the acquisition of sociolinguistic competence. Marriott’s study points clearly
to an input explanation for lack of mastery in one area of sociolinguistic
competence. Regan’s shows that contact with native speakers and the consequent
nature of the input had an important effect on the acquisition of
sociolinguistic native speech norms. It seems also from all of these studies
that the input may have to be modified or negotiated for best effect.