Investigates the relationship between tasks and learners in task-based learning. Findings suggest that manipulation of task characteristics and conditions may not achieve the intended pedagogic outcomes, and that new ways are needed to focus learners' attention of form without sacrificing the meaning-driven principles of task-based learning.…

This article was written interactively over an extended period of consultation and explores questions concerning the theory and practice of language awareness, its descriptive orientations, its relationship with critical social dimensions, and its connections with current theories of language teaching and learning. (Author/VWL)

Identified changes in 48 nonnative speakers' (NNSs) pronunciation over a period of 12 weeks as a result of the type of instruction they received--global, segmental, and no specific pronunciation instruction. Implications for pronunciation instruction are drawn from the results. (Author/VWL)

This article reprint focuses on how to develop communicative competence in a foreign language. Discusses autonomy in language use, essential processes in learning to communicate, problems with drills, communication drills, using language freely for normal purposes, and autonomous interaction in the language program. Suggests natural uses of…

Discusses the neglected area in the teaching of Indonesian, namely the social significance of Indonesian varieties vis-a-vis regional languages. Suggests using a multimedia teaching tool as a possible solution, and discusses how this relates to the multiliteracies approach to pedagogy. (Author/VWL)

Introduces this special issue of the journal and discusses the notion of "post-process." Investigates four components of Trimbur's (1994) definition of post-process, reviews studies in first and second language writing/literacy research that have attempted to move beyond process pedagogy and theory, and concludes with a summative definition of…

Describes dictogloss, an integrated skills technique for language learning in which students work together to create a reconstructed version of a text read to them by their teacher. Dictogloss is situated in relation to eight current overlapping trends in second language teaching and description is provided of how the literature on cooperative…

Attempts to bridge the gap between second language listening theory and practice by examining the effect of two tasks designed to teach students how to listen. Subjects were two groups of students registered in a second-semester beginner level French course. Illustrates the potential of applying current knowledge about developing metacognitive…

Discusses a learning module on Acadian history used in a French immersion setting that focuses on a theatrical arts approach. (Author/VWL)

Describes a literature course designed for students studying abroad, aimed at improving their chances of becoming "culturally fluent" during their stay abroad. Using writings by German and Austrian authors on dealing with cultures other than their own, provides an ongoing orientation and help to develop cultural sensitivities. (AS)

Describes methods used in teaching an introduction to French literature to help students connect literature with their own knowledge so that they see it as a link to interpreting their world and themselves. Suggests teaching literature heightens students' awareness of the power of language, which makes them better users not only of French but also…

Provides a list of possible explanations for difficulties the visually impaired may face in second or foreign language classes and offers suggestions for making their language learning experience more pleasant and successful. (Author/VWL)

Presents the necessary steps for designing an effective language learning tool to foster communication and negotiation, considering the importance of supporting integral education, using tasks, providing elaborated input and feedback, and promoting collaborative learning. Reports on a study conducted using such a tool to determine whether…

Describes how to use the Internet as part of a high intermediate sustained content curriculum to develop English-as-a-Second-Language students' literacy skills through an activity called focus discipline research. Details the curriculum and activities, providing examples from the study of environmental science, presents results of student feedback…

Summarizes the findings of a work in progress that attempted to investigate to what extent task-based learning was more effective than the 3Ps approach in the teaching of Japanese as a foreign language in Thailand. (Author/VWL)