Teaching and all (1)

Introduction to Language Teaching Methods

  • The book aims to explore various language teaching methods.

  • Key terms:

    • Method: A coherent set linking teacher's actions in the classroom with underlying thoughts.

    • Techniques: Specific actions or strategies teachers employ.

    • Principles: Theories or beliefs guiding techniques.

  • Goals of the book:

    1. Understand different teaching methods.

    2. Reflect on personal teaching beliefs and practices.

    3. Introduce and adapt a variety of techniques.

Thought-in-Action Links

  • Teaching links thoughts about:

    • Language and culture

    • Understanding students’ needs and learning styles

    • Teacher’s self-perception and efficacy.

  • Awareness of these thoughts enables teachers to evaluate and potentially alter their classroom actions.

Case Study: Heather's Experience

  • Heather aimed to encourage student initiative by letting them pose questions.

  • Despite her effort, students relied on her prompts, showing she had not achieved true initiative.

  • Discussion with Diane, her supervisor, led Heather to recognize her insecurity in student-led discussions.

  • Conclusion: Teachers may need to modify their underlying beliefs or comfort levels in addition to techniques.

Coherent Sets of Thought-Action Links

  • Methods in language teaching reflect coherent sets of thoughts and actions.

  • Example of incoherence: Believing language acquisition is a creative process while employing rigid teaching techniques.

  • Different techniques can yield different learning outcomes depending on how they are implemented.

Evaluating Methods

  • The book does not advocate for a single best teaching method.

  • Teachers should articulate their beliefs about the teaching-learning process based on experience and research.

  • Engaging with diverse methods fosters enthusiasm in teaching and active learner participation.

Impact of External Factors

  • Factors influencing language teaching practices:

    • Increasing multilingualism due to global population flows.

    • Development of the Common European Framework (CEFR) promoting plurilingualism.

    • Technological advancements.

    • Constraints imposed by standardized exams and curricula.

  • This book aims to present a selection of contemporary methods reflecting diverse teaching philosophies.

Doubting and Believing Games

  • Challenges to fundamental beliefs can provoke initial resistance.

  • Doubting Game: Critical evaluation requiring evidence and logic.

  • Believing Game: Constructive engagement and empathy towards differing views.

  • The importance of first understanding a teaching principle before casting judgment:

    • Rejection of unfamiliar methods can lead to missed opportunities for growth.

    • Consider adapting ideas creatively if direct application seems unfeasible.