The effects of a task-based vocabulary learning technique that focuses learners' attention on the underlying meaning of a word were investigated. The words came from Xue and Nation's University Word List. The experimental exercises encouraged high quality discussion and increased utilization of context clues to determine word meaning. (26…

Discussion of design principles in creating interactive video simulations for second-language learning focuses on two interactive video simulations on the Eurocentres Videodisc (ECVD). Four design principles are explained, instructional procedures involved in the ECVD are described, and learners' reactions are discussed. (four references) (LRW)

Investigates the linkage between German studies and engineering and how it affects the learning environment and quality for students. Linking two different modes of scholarly investigation and teaching--engineering and humanities--has attracted and retained a significant number of women. In addition to the positive effects on students, this…

Explored how one skilled Spanish-as-a-foreign-language student in a third-year level class performed reading-to-write tasks. Case Study research methodology was used to investigate the process of reading-to-write within an academic language setting. Data were collected using stimulated-recall interviews. (Author/VWL)

Investigated the relative importance of various grammatical and discourse features in the evaluation of second-language writing samples produced by college students enrolled in beginning and intermediate French courses. Three native-speaking instructors of French rated 172 essays using a scale that was constructed by a researcher and based on…

Describes the development of the VV-BOS (Visualizer/Verbalizer Behavior Observation Scale), a computer-based instrument for direct observation of students' preferences for visual or verbal learning material. Results of a study with second-language learners indicated a high degree of reliability as an alternative to conventional questionnaires.…

Examines the work of the U.S. Institute for Peace, talks about the need for international exchange, and discusses the role of teaching assistants in U.S. universities. (Author/VWL)

Reports findings from a longitudinal study tracking the expectations, shifts in expectations, and emergent beliefs of novice self-instructed language learners. Investigates how learners experienced and articulated their experience in a distance-learning context. Focused on learner-context interface, tolerance for ambiguity, and locus of control.…

Examines the potential of using data from interviews with second-language writers to explore ways in which writing differs between languages and cultures. Reports results of a study of 17 university staff and postgraduate students, all seasoned academic writers in both their mother tongue and English, who were interviewed about their understanding…

This study provides insights into the nature of second-language (L2) reading on the World Wide Web based on direct observation of L2 learners performing reading tasks in this medium. The article highlights the importance of various aspects of computer and language knowledge, particularly in the area of vocabulary, that the learner must bring to…

Discusses key issues of late modern society that help make a case for critical awareness of discourse: the relationship between discourse, knowledge, and social change in the information or knowledge-based society; the "textually-mediated" nature of contemporary social life; the relationship between discourse and social difference; the…

Discusses the use of student journals as a means of assessing the intellectual journey taken by students through a postgraduate course in critical language awareness. Shows how students construct their multiple identities in their journals and how these identities are transformed or conserved as they enter a new discourse community. (Author/VWL)

Describes fundamental changes in U.S. society and the world that are dictating modifications in the rules and assumptions for U.S. higher education in general and for instruction in foreign languages, foreign cultures, and professional preparation in particular. (Author/VWL)

Provides a list of recently published children's books in Spanish for Spanish-speaking children or students learning Spanish as a second or foreign language. The list is divided into one section for very young children and another for middle grade students. Information is also given about a Web site where users can access a searchable database of…

Five English language learners (ELL) teachers and 117 elementary students, including students with disabilities, participated in the Class-Wide Peer Tutoring Learning Management System. Students made considerable progress in mastering the curriculum over periods ranging from 15 to 21 weeks of school and students and teachers were satisfied with…