ERIC Number: ED405733
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1996
Pages: 363
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: ISBN-0-7619-0191-4
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Understanding Second Language Learning Difficulties.
Ehrman, Madeline E.
The book discusses in detail a variety of practical and theoretical issues in identifying and addressing second language learning problems. Intended primarily for classroom teachers working with late teenagers or adults, it focuses on learning styles, affective factors, and learning strategies. Real and composite case studies are presented throughout the text, and emphasis is on the teacher's role in identifying and solving problems. An introductory chapter explains the purpose and organization of the book. Subsequent chapter topics include: methods of direct data collection (observation and interviews); cognitive (learning) styles; field dependence and field sensitivity; personality models; the affective dimension (motivation, self-efficacy, and anxiety); student biographical and background information and learning strategies; using information from questionnaires and tests, and assessing language aptitude; case studies of specific situations; knowing when to seek outside help; and applying the book's content in the classroom. Appended materials include a sample biographical/background questionnaire, an instrument for assessing student study approach, and motivation and learning strategies questionnaire, notes standardized test item interpretation, and case highlights. Contains 154 references. (MSE)
Descriptors: Anxiety, Case Studies, Classroom Communication, Classroom Research, Clinical Diagnosis, Cognitive Style, Consultants, Data Collection, Field Dependence Independence, Identification, Instructional Improvement, Language Aptitude, Learning Motivation, Learning Problems, Learning Strategies, Learning Theories, Personality Traits, Questioning Techniques, Questionnaires, Second Language Instruction, Second Language Learning, Second Languages, Self Efficacy, Student Characteristics, Tests
SAGE Publications, Inc., 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320 (clothbound: ISBN-0-7619-0190-6; paperback: ISBN-0-7619-0191-4).
Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Teacher; Books; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A