A discussion of the loss and maintenance of second language skills beyond the formal education process provides information about skill loss and a variety of strategies and suggestions for language skill maintenance. The book begins with an overview of the subject of language loss and maintenance (Jean Berko Gleason and Barbara Alexander Pan), discussing personal factors that seem to make a difference in language study, cultural influences, and the relationship between the kind of language instruction received and the likelihood of losing the language. Subsequent chapters focus on different efforts to help prevent the loss of a foreign language. These include personal learning strategies (Rebecca Oxford and David Crookall), self-instructional resources such as cassettes and other learning resources (John Means), the use of computers to maintain language skills (Frank Otto), study and travel abroad (Helene Zimmer-Loew), and the community as a cultural learning resource (Frederick L. Jenks). References, additional resources, and useful addresses are included. (MSE)