Portions of Mendoza-Harrell's article, which is a rebuttal of an earlier article by Allen, are mentioned and criticized. Allen's earlier article discussed the efficacy of language laboratories and proposed student use of cassette recorders. (RM)

The University of Birmingham is equipped with four language laboratories and thirteen private study booths. Use of the laboratories, but not the study booths, declines after the first term of each session. A survey was done gathering data about the users of the private study booths. (RM)

A rebuttal is made to an article entitled "The Case Against the Conventional Language Laboratory" by John R. Allen ("System," Vol. 2, No. 1). Arguments made in that article against the language laboratory are outlined and discussed. (RM)

An experimental year of oral testing using the language laboratory at Victoria University is described. A new first-year 12-credit course is primarily a language course based on audiovisual/lingual methods. The content, evaluation, and administration of oral expression tests and performance tapes are covered. (SW)

Argues for giving precedence to the development of listening and reading skills, while postponing speaking and writing, in order to acquire a solid foundation for later speaking. Emphasizes bilingual exercises comprised of listening, supported by written texts. This method also preferable for adult learners because of inhibitions and anxiety about…

Describes the teaching methods of the Yazigi Institutes of Brazil, which offer Portuguese instruction to foreigners. (JB)

Two areas in which language laboratory programs can be improved--training teachers in nonverbal aspects of communication and maintenance of an adequate supply of taped materials--are discussed. (RM)

Discusses research supporting the contention that listening fluency should be taught first and oral response delayed because languaqe acquisition takes place without any overt performance. Includes extensive bibliographic references. (PMJ)