Direct Method

By the end of this lecture, students should be able to: Develop an awareness about the history of the Direct Method. Recognize the nature of the Direct Method Approach. Define the Direct Method. Recognize the methodology of DM. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of the Direct Method . Form an outline about the Direct Method. Objectives of this lecture

The History of the Direct Method This method dates back to 1884 when the German scholar and psychologist F. Frankle provided a theoretical justification for the method by writing about the direct association between forms and meaning in the target language. It is also based on the work of Gouin, who in the 1880s observed children learning language in natural settings.

The nature of the Direct Method: The direct method is a complete departure from the grammar- translation Method. It is sometimes called the Natural/Oral method because the aim is to teach students in a similar way that they acquire their first language. The grammar-translation method relies heavily on the written language, whereas the direct method places the emphasis on both listening and speaking. The Direct Method provokes interest and enthusiasm, but it is not an easy methodology to use in a classroom situation. It requires small classes and high student motivation.

The nature of the Direct Method: Grammar is taught inductively--rules are generalized from the practice and experience with the target language. Lessons begin with a dialogue using a modern conversational style in the target language. So, Student learns by associating meaning directly in English Material is first presented orally with actions or pictures. The mother tongue is NEVER used. There is no translation.

Definition of the Direct Method: The Direct Method is based on the direct involvement of the student when speaking, and listening to, the foreign language in common everyday situations. Consequently, there is lots of oral interaction, spontaneous use of the language, no translation, and little if any analysis of grammar rules and syntax.

The Methodology of the Direct Method 1- Show – The student is shown something so that they understand the word. For example, they might be shown visual aids such as pictures or flash cards for nouns. The teacher might use gestures (Body Language) to explain verbs, and so on. 2- Say – The teacher verbally presents the word or sentence, taking care to pronounce the word correctly. 3- Try – The student then tries to repeat what the teacher is saying. 4- Correct – The teacher corrects the students and ensures that they are pronouncing words correctly. 5- Repeat – Finally, the students repeat the word a number of times. Here the teacher uses a number of methods for repetition, including group repetition, single student repetition and other activities designed to get the students to repeat the word.

Advantages of the Direct Method: It teaches the language and doesn’t teach about the language. Due to its emphasis on speech, it is better for students who have a need of real communication in English. Teaching vocabulary using visual aids, which is still widely used today when teaching English to speakers of other languages. It makes the learning of English interesting and lively by establishing direct bond between a word and its meaning. It is an activity method facilitating alertness and participation of the pupils. Through this method, fluency of speech, good pronunciation and power of expression are properly developed.

Disadvantages of the Direct Method: It works on the assumption that a second language is learnt exactly the same way as the first. It is hard for public schools to integrate it. “classroom size, time, and teacher background (native speakers or native like fluency) made such a method difficult to use.” There are many abstract words which cannot be interpreted directly in English and much time and energy are wasted in making attempts for the purpose. The method ignores systematic written work and reading activities and sufficient attention is not paid to reading and writing. There is dearth of teachers trained and interested in teaching English in this method. This method may not hold well in higher classes where the Translation Method is found suitable.

Application : Typical Techniques: Specific teaching methods would include things such as: Students reading out aloud. Question and answer exercises ( in Target Language). Conversation practices. Dictation. Interaction among students and with the teacher is fostered. Fill in the blank along with reading and writing.

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