Foreign Language Learning Methods Susan Eick Communication 538 Instructor Kathy Gill December 6, 2004

Foreign Language Learning Methods Why is it important for Americans to study foreign languages? To amalgamate socially, economically and politically with other cultures To understand changes in America

Topics What are foreign language learning methods? Are they effective? How does new media influence foreign language learning?

The 1990s American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages – 5 goals Communicate in other languages Gain knowledge of other cultures Connect with other disciplines Develop insight into nature/language of culture Participate in multilingual communities

Learning Methods of the 1990s Content-Based Language Instruction (CBI) Traditional Classroom learning Foreign Films Tapes Study Abroad Language Clubs

Today Learning Methods Traditional class – instructor centered Online class – student centered Online chat – more equal, less inhibition

Student Instructor

Student Instructor

So Many Questions, So Many Possibilities Will (American) English dominate global society? Will languages fuse online? Will grammar deteriorate? Will software programs translate everything? How will we communicate in the future?

Looking Forward How will new media continue to influence foreign language learning? 1) More interactive 2) Custom tailored to classes and students 3) Interactive animations – writing kanji 4) More online interaction with students in foreign countries

Interesting Websites

Back to the Original Question Why is it important for Americans to study foreign languages? Will new media change the need?

My Summary The traditional classroom learning method will always matter. There will always be a need for the power of face-to-face communication. Online learning methods will enhance, but not replace, traditional learning methods. It’s up to us to use technology to enhance what we already do so well as humans; communicate.