Native English-speaking (NS) listeners evaluated effects of three types of instruction (segmental accuracy; general speaking habits and prosodic factors; and no specific pronunciation instruction) on speech of three groups of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) learners. Sentences were recorded and extemporaneously produced narratives at beginning…

Measured the first two vowel-tract resonances of a sample of native-French speakers for the non-nasalized vowels of that language. Values measured for native speakers for a particular vowel were used as target parameters for subjects who used a visual display of an impedance spectrum of their own vocal tracts as real time feedback to realize the…

Adult native speakers of English and German were asked to give subjective reactions to common conversational routines presented in context (such as "Oh, I'm very sorry"), using new adaptation of Osgood's Differential Scale called the Pragmatic Differential. Analysis of ratings showed similarities and differences in how the two groups react to…

Investigates the use of discourse markers by advanced Turkish learners of English. The research discussed here aims to make an initial contribution to the study of how discourse markers are used by second-language learners, and to illustrate why such research should be valuable and necessary component of interlanguage pragmatics. (Author/VWL)

Examined the sixth year of a Japanese foreign language in the elementary school (FLES) program. Provides results from attitude surveys of children, teachers, and administrators; data on parental support for their children's learning of Japanese; proficiency ratings on an end-of-year prochievement interview; comparison of ratings of the cohort of…

A study involving 16 Japanese young men (half with deafness) and 16 Irish young men (half with deafness) found that the Japanese men who were deaf outscored their English-language counterparts in memory for abstract design, due to prolonged use of a highly visual writing system. (Contains references.) (Author/CR)

Assessed and compared the development of receptive and productive Dutch and Turkish vocabulary of 31 Turkish immigrant preschool children. Using multivariate analysis of variance for repeated measurements, main and interaction effects of group (Turkish, Dutch working class, and Dutch middle class) and time were tested. Results are interpreted…

Explores the role of language awareness in the teaching and learning of languages within the framework of educational reform in Spain. Three different types of discourse are compared: the official curriculum, teachers' views obtained in interviews, and teachers' classroom practices. (Author/VWL)

Provides an overview of the academic job market for PhDs in terms of skills and qualifications needed by job candidates and demonstrates how graduate students can begin to focus their educational efforts in the most relevant ways. Career development, placement options for departments, faculty, and students are also discussed. (Author/VWL)

Outlines how a Web site for a three-term German literature course at Oregon State University was created and used. Assesses the teaching of the Web-dependent version of the course, evaluates how the Internet enhances the course, and concludes by reporting on the response to the Web site. (Author/VWL)

Describes a study of Japanese homestay students enrolled in a U.S. university that sought insight into the students language experience. Students were interviewed regarding the amount of conversation they had with their host families, the character and quality of the conversation, and how students and host family members negotiate…

Describes the cooperative learning activities and writing process techniques used in writing classes that include students from 14 different countries. Most students report greater confidence and comfort learning writing through group work. Teaching the process of writing helps the majority of students to recognize and appreciate the value of…

Five articles highlight specific techniques for use with learners of English as a Second or Foreign Language. These include integrating culture, technology, and writing in ESL; a book club for advanced adult literacy students; teaching students to evaluate Internet material; vocabulary circle talk; and language practice with networked computers.…

Presents case study of 4.5-year-old to highlight aspects of socialization for young bilingual children learning English as a second language. Identifies social rules/routines, child-adult interaction, and the stage of English language development as areas providing important educational insights. Highlights how children in early stages of second…

Addresses some of the epistemic and practical issues facing alternative assessment, with particular reference to teacher assessment of spoken English as an additional language/second language (EAL/ESL) in the early years of primary education in England and Wales. (Author/VWL)