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)

Methodological and theoretical options confronting second-language textbook authors are outlined. Analytic and synthetic methodological approaches, linguistic options, geographic variability, registers of language, spoken versus written language, cultural materials, and learners' level are discussed. (SW)

Defines "listening comprehension" and discusses both its role in the process of first and second language acquisition and the modes of language processing presumed to operate in listening comprehension. Presents specific teaching strategies and material incorporating listening comprehension in the foreign language classroom at all levels. (SED)

Teacher prepared taped exchanges of realia between foreign language classes and classes of speakers of the target language provide language lessons through personal contact similar to those gained through a trip to the country of the target language. Sample lessons offer linguistic, cultural, and practical guidelines for implementing such a…

The "Outsider's Gaze" is a set of three DVDs (Digital Video Discs) for Asian students of Spanish, French, and German. The project employs constructivist principles in the development of language learning materials. This paper discusses insiders (native speakers) and outsiders (language learners), language teaching, theories of learning,…

This article revisits a question posed by Hyland [(1997). Is EAP necessary? A survey of Hong Kong undergraduates. "Asian Journal of English Language Teaching, 7," 77-99] in the Hong Kong higher education context: Is EAP necessary? The article presents the overall findings of a large-scale, multi-faceted investigation into the language…

A discussion of the design of effective instructional materials for English as a Second Language (ESL) focuses on the application of second language learning theories and concepts of instructional design from educational technology to development of interactive video. A number of second language learning models and related research are examined,…

This discussion of cooperative second language learning describes the approach in terms of response to three questions: WHO? WHAT? and WHY? The first section "WHO: Major Directors and Actors," chronicles the evolution of cooperative learning in general and cooperative language learning in particular, citing some specific methods and the…

One of two publications developed to facilitate bilingual vocational training, this handbook is intended to assist instructional materials developers and teachers in designing or adapting existing materials for selected-language speakers and vocations. (CE 019 070 contains a guide for assisting decision makers in determining priorities for…

The author's analysis of reading material content of second language texts examines achievement of graphemic-phonemic contrasts, sequence of association in the process of reading, and control of sounds, grammar, subject matter, and cultural content. Because the orthography-sound association skill cannot be separated from the sound-meaning skill,…

Success or failure of a language laboratory is due to a complex set of reasons. An often neglected factor lies in teacher and student attitudes to learner-machine-materials interrelationships. This paper specifies significant factors affecting the establishment of positive attitudes in teachers and students through training. The paper has four…

The ability to anticipate elements in sequence is the foundation of all language skills. Because of its naturally high redundancy, it is almost always possible in the normal use of language to partially predict what will come next in a sequence of elements. The central feature of language processing is expectancy for successive elements. A very…

Discusses why and how language laboratories are used in Japan to develop aural perception and comprehension and oral production in English. Presents some practical suggestions for the preparation of relevant teaching materials. (PMJ)

Discusses the need to foster foreign language and international studies in the United States, with emphasis on research, curriculum and materials development, and teacher education. Recommendations are made regarding new legislation, priorities in existing legislation, and activities requiring the cooperation and organization of the foreign…

Discusses the potential for growth in foreign language enrollments in community colleges. Some community college and higher education enrollment statistics for Illinois are provided. (RM)