The nature of approaches and methods

Wednesday 14^th, 2012.

The Nature of Approaches and Methods

In this class we have to read the second chapter: The Nature Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching.

We discuss the meaning of Approach.

   

Approach is a general view of something is a set of ideas (beliefs), principles    and assumptions. An approach includes methods and techniques. And the most important is that an approach is Coherence.  

                           

Theory of language

We saw at least three different theoretical views of language:

-   Structural:   It is the most traditional view; in this view the language is a system of rules (sentence).

-  Functional: In this view the language is a vehicle for the expression through categories of functions and meanings.(text, dialogue, specific topic)                                       

-    Interactional:  The language is a vehicle of social interactions (exchange ideas, natural real conversation) and transactions.

Meaningful learning (you want to achieve)

It is very important that you need to considerer the learner’s experience.

Theory of learning

A learning theory underlying an approach or a method to two questions:

-What are the psycholinguistics and cognitive processes involved in language learning?

-what are the conditions that need to be meet in order for these learning processes to be activated?

1.     - Processes - oriented:  this theory is build on learning processes such as habit, inductions, inference, hypothesis, generalization.  (the problem is this theory apply the same for everyone)

2.     - Condition - oriented: this theory emphasize the nature of the human, and physical context in which language learning takes place.

Also in this text, we saw important authors like:

-Krashen (1981): with his Monitor Theory addresses both the process and he condition dimensions of learning. He distinguishes two important concepts Acquisition and learning.

Acquisition: it is natural, it refer to the natural assimilation of language rules through using language for communication.

Learning: refers to the formal study of language rules and is a conscious process. (artificial)

Krashen also said that for the process of “acquisition” take place he addresses the conditions necessary, in this term he describe the type of “input”.

*Input must be:  - comprehensible,

                              - slightly above the learner´s present level of competence,

                              - interesting or relevant,

                              - not grammatically sequenced

                              - In sufficient quantity,

                              - and experienced in low-anxiety contexts,

 *affective filter is very important, when you are trying to teach a second language.

If the affective filter is too high to his mother language, you will more obstacles to teach the second language. You have to create ways to get the students without making him awkward when he listen the second language.