A comparative study examined the influence of overseas experience on how learners put their second-language knowledge to use during communication, and how they compensate for gaps in their knowledge. Results do not suggest a strong dichotomy between language learning in the classroom and abroad or between grammar and oral proficiency. (20…

Examines second-language vocabulary knowledge and acquisition by reviewing research on levels of lexical proficiency and on qualitative differences in the oral and written communication of French immersion students as compared to that of their francophone peers. Argues for improved vocabulary instruction in immersion programs. (MDM)

Explores the comparative importance of scholarly research and effective teaching among college and university language faculty in gaining tenure and promotions, suggesting that there be more tangible recognition given to faculty whose language instruction serves to attract and retain students in foreign language study. (four references) (CB)

Abstracts of three research projects (1996-1998) funded by the Scottish Office Education and Industry Department: "Foreign Languages in the Upper Secondary School: A Study of the Causes of Decline" (McPake, Johnstone, Low); "Teachers' ICT Skills and Knowledge Needs" (Williams, Wilson, Richardson, Tuson, Coles); and…

This paper surveys some current developments in second language vocabulary assessment, with particular attention to the ways in which computer corpora can provide better quality information about the frequency of words and how they are used in specific contexts. The relative merits of different word lists are discussed, including the Academic Word…

Three research studies conducted at Thai universities involving language testing and courses in General English and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) are discussed. The first study examined the predictive validity of different types of language tests on academic achievement in General English and EAP courses. It found that the test format, as…

A review of 10 major studies, conducted since 1976, assessing the effectiveness of Title VII bilingual education programs suggest that bilingual education is a viable instructional program for children of limited English-speaking ability. The studies examined are: "Bilingual Education: An Appraisal of Empirical Research," Zappert and…

This paper reports on foreign language instruction in the community colleges of Florida. A brief rationale for increasing the importance given to language instruction is followed by a review of the literature concerning the latest classroom and laboratory foreign language techniques such as computers, video taping and analysis, audio tape…

One of 10 studies commissioned to investigate research needs and to stimulate planning activities, this paper concerns the structures, processes, interrelationships, governance, finance, and workforces of institutions and organizations as they are engaged in international and second language education. After noting the field of instruction and…

Explores issues of competency and proficiency in the learning of foreign languages at the undergraduate level, involving competencies currently established for language learning and the establishment of "tracks" in literature, language, and culture. (CB)

Reflects on the five-year growth and development of a foreign language and literature collaborative among universities, school districts, and a foreign language association. The collaborative has succeeded in establishing educational priorities, offering diverse and popular seminars, administering teaching fellowships, and addressing new…

Discusses the practicalities associated with the introduction of proficiency-based instruction into university programs and courses that teach Arabic. Some of the additional responsibilities that such innovations place on the language teacher are identified, and issues for further discussion, research, and experimentation are raised. (19…

This paper presents a followup of selected studies on effective schools with a population of bilingual and/or limited-English-proficient (LEP) students. Over 150 research papers on both effective schools and effective bilingual LEP instruction were reviewed. The literature was divided into three categories: (1) studies with a population including…

The purpose of this report is to present work done in the language module projects of the English and German degrees at Roskilde University Center (Denmark). Project work is the essential structuring ingredient of foreign language degrees at the Center. The collection of papers included in this issue attempts to provide information on what has…

A discussion of computer use for teaching English as a second language (ESL) at the college level examines what computers can do in and outside the classroom and why ESL teachers should become acquainted with them. It begins by defining the various tools and tasks of the computer, including word processors, instructional courseware, database…