An Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) may be evaluated either during the interview procedure (direct-method) or from a tape-made oral interaction (semi-direct method). Such variety in methods of assessment can influence test takers' scores extensively. However, it is not conclusive whether such differences are due to test format or something else.…

Many ELT examinations have gone online in the last few years and a large number of educational institutions have also started considering the possibility of implementing their own tests. This paper deals with the training of a group of 24 ELT teachers in the Region of Valencia (Spain). In 2007, the Ministry of Education provided funds to determine…

The increasing numbers of ELLs (English Language Learners) in U.S. classrooms has prioritized into building quality teacher education programs for teachers so that they have the pedagogical tools necessary to support their students. A continued focus with professional development at the local, state, and national level has gained momentum to…

Salutes various pioneers in the field of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) education who have helped shape the field from its inception in this country. The group includes researchers, innovators, administrators, and teacher trainers who have worked in the field for 25 years or more. The article offers brief biographies and each person's advice…

Offering boys greater choice over what they learn may help address their underachievement in modern languages. However, they may not profit from this unless they are given explicit guidelines regarding how to go about their learning. The article discusses the effects of social and educational contexts, student motivation, learning strategies,…

Ethnographic examination of the English-dominant culture in the United States and how Hispanics are affected. Through several vignettes, reveals that the civil rights of Hispanics are violated because of cultural differences. (DA)

This article reports on the activities of the MLA and ADFL to present the viewpoint of professional language teachers to members of the President's Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies. (CFM)

Examines and compares the responses given by 480 Minnesota Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (MCTFL) members on their perceptions of their preprofessional preparation in terms of its quality and usefulness. (GLR)

This publication reviews literature and presents findings concerning programs at the secondary school level that are designed to serve English language learners (ELLs). These are students who come from homes where English is not the primary language spoken and whose English language skills are assessed as needing improvement. The report organizes…

This article by the Council of Europe discusses the fact that Irish is a required curriculum subject, Teachers disagree about whether Irish should be mandatory. (AM)

Considers "Ebonics" the most encompassing of the different terms used to describe various English language patterns used by Blacks. Recommends measures to improve teacher attitudes and knowledge in dealing with students who use nonstandard language patterns. (Author/MJL)

This report on basic skills training at Norfolk State University (Virginia) profiles current activities and ascertains the perceptions of the faculty in order to develop general guidelines that might be useful for continued planning. Data from 107 questionnaires completed by Norfolk faculty show that they regard basic skills as critical for…

This book is the result of a study that investigated the influence of "machismo" (a set of attitudes, beliefs, and behavior that perpetuates the myth of male superiority) in elementary education. The study included (1) a content analysis of textbooks used in Spanish and social studies classes in public and private schools in Puerto Rico…

Resentment toward Asians on college campuses springs from many sources, including trade-war concerns, language barriers, the "model-minority" myth, and other stereotypes. Advocacy groups and student organizations are attempting to combat bias with activism. (MSE)