Research results of some difficulties of teaching English as a second language at the University of Compiegne (France) indicate that the target group was not well researched, their motivations and needs were not precisely analyzed, and the pedagogical approach used was nearly equivalent to that of the secondary school system. Includes response to…

Reports on a survey of mother tongue teaching and support for primary age pupils in England and Wales, undertaken as part of the Schools Council Mother Tongue Project. The analysis indicates that the majority of local education authorities now have a multilingual school population, and that bilingual pupils can communicate in a wide range of…

Describes a software package for computer-assisted language learning, designed to put the text handling and "number crunching" capabilities of the microcomputer to use in the foreign language classroom. Done in ways compatible with the learner's own natural needs and strategies, it also gives the classroom teacher a significant degree of control…

Examines the techniques and strategies that have been found helpful in making the transition from heavily structure-based English courses to a more communicative approach in Sri Lankan schools. Stresses that the teachers throughout the system need to be reoriented, citing that however strong their knowledge of structure, the students are unable to…

Emphasizes that although computer technology opens the door to great possibilities for teaching language, it will only be as powerful as the programs developed to go with the machines. Since the language lab remains one of the principal tools in foreign language education, it is hoped that computer assisted instruction will reflect back onto tape…

Provisions for multicultural education in Australia include expanded ESL and foreign language offerings, various bilingual and bicultural curriculum projects for ethnic schools, and revamping of social studies programs to educate all students and teachers about Australia's ethnic minorities. While such programs should enhance mutual respect and…

Presents significant changes that have taken place in French teaching in the United Kingdom which may possibly be adapted for use in Australian classrooms. One major addition, the "French for Business Studies" examination, has been exhibiting increasing popularity among students, due to its practical application to the everyday business…

Focuses on basic principles that can be followed in planning a language course, by observing examples from a course designed to teach English as a second language to newly arrived adult migrants in Australia. In addition, the importance of identifying both long-term goals and immediate objectives is stressed, in terms of communicative proficiency…

When developing large computer-assisted instructional (CAI) courseware packages, it is suggested that there be more attentive planning to the overall package design before actual lesson development is begun. This process has been simplified by modifying the systems approach used to develop single CAI lessons, followed by planning for the…

Explains that the speech compressor/expander is a piece of electronic equipment useful in second language learning laboratories. Considering the relationship between technology and its use as an aid in achieving fluency in comprehension, the theory of rate alteration in second language learning is supported as a viable tool to enhance any…

Discusses positive and negative aspects of teaching language use--the Communicative Approach. While the Communicative Approach is learner-centered and develops the students' communicative competence, the design and current tactics of this methodology are criticized as being "decontextualized" and "abstracted." (SL)

Semistructured interviews in 11 schools questioning headteachers about their concerns about modern language teaching policy provided the following: Quality of teaching crucial; continuance of one foreign language rather than another is attributed to ability, industry, and enthusiasm of teacher. Emphasizes that young entrants to the teaching…

Since polysemy narrows down the semantic autonomy of the isolated word and increases the importance of the surrounding context, teaching children this concept is critical in order to prevent ambiguity and confusion. Concerning socially disadvantaged children, it is particularly essential to convey the idea that one phenomenon can have different…

As the emphasis on global education continues to grow, students and teachers who are serious about hearing a second language on a routine basis should consider the acquisition of a shortwave radio. Broadcasts, edited with care and used creatively, have the potential of filling learner needs at various levels of instruction. (SL)

The decline in foreign language study is described, and suggestions are made for change and revitalization of foreign language departments. (RM)