This handbook is a much expanded version of the original Learning Activities Survey published by Dr. Kathleen P. King of Fordham University in 1998. Based on her ground breaking research in this field where she used a mixed methodology research approach to study transformative learning, the book will provide a model of research, firsthand…

Some guidelines are offered that detail the complexities involved in interviewing for language testing purposes. They cover strategies for structuring interviews (informal conversational, interview guide, standardized open-ended), questions, interviewing skills, and physical setting. (five references) (LB)

Gives tips and classroom techniques on the use of interviews as a way to provide real communication practice in the English as a second language classroom. (EKN)

This paper is designed to build interpersonal, basic, and thinking skills so that students will become better able to answer basic questions about themselves (such as name, job title, job skills, personal qualities) in response to basic and general questions likely to be encountered in the course of seeking employment. Students are configured in…

The use of an interview to test verbal ability in a second language and to establish a scale of oral proficiency is discussed. Sample questions are included in Spanish. (JB)

The WorkStyles program is described in some detail. The program is designed specifically for limited English speakers to address barriers to learning and employment grounded in a lack of confidence in the use of English. In order to develop these skills for low level learners, the training is divided into various segments including the following:…

In this unit, students will learn to introduce themselves appropriately for a job interview; answer questions about their experience, background, personal qualities, and general suitability for the job; and take part in a simulated video interview. The lesson builds up to the actual interview slowly by proceeding step-by-step through the…

Interview data gathered from students in a New Zealand English-as-a-Second-Language program form the basis of a discussion of autonomous behavior in language learning. It is noted that autonomous language learning has advantages over teacher-dominated learning but that it cannot simply be "clipped on" to existing programs. (Contains…

Discusses the use of recordings from Radio Canada and Radio France in advanced high school or college French classes. Techniques for using the recordings, particularly interviews, are suggested. A 16-item selective bibliography is appended. (AM)

This article reports on a study that investigated the dual characteristics of willingness to communicate (WTC) in a second language (L2): trait-like WTC and situational WTC. By adopting methods of classroom observation, participant interviews and questionnaires, consistency between L2 learners' self-report WTC and their actual WTC behavior in an…

Development of four one-credit oral communication English courses designed to fit students' schedules at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez is reported. The courses emphasize cooperative communication skills and specialized skills. Simulation and pair/group activities are described. (eight references) (LB)

This article outlines a plan for developing listening comprehension materials for advanced students of English as a second language, based on formal and informal speech samples of natural discourse. (CFM)

Interviews and biographical sketches of 16 minority students and teachers of German at 3 universities and 1 school district are reported. The process of acquiring the language and becoming familiar with a foreign culture unites these individuals of otherwise diverse ethnicity, background, and experience. (Author/LB)

Mental rehearsal is a somewhat ambiguous term in the literature of language acquisition, psychology, and second language learning. However, in second language learning it refers to an important strategic behavior involving silent covert practice of the other language, undertaken in relation to an oral or written, future or past language task. A…

Articles in these two issues are as follows: "Imagination and Memory: Friends or Enemies" (Earl W. Stevick); "Imagination in Second Language Acquisition" (James J. Asher); "Where the Magic Lies" (Interview with Carolyn Graham); "Drawing on Experience: The Interview" (with John Dumicich); "What Color is…